Every spring, more than 650,000 visitors flock to Plant City for the Florida Strawberry Festival, lured by the scent of fried foods, the sound of thrilling concerts and small-town charm, but long after the food is eaten and the concerts end lies a powerful story of economic impact that touches nearly every corner of the […]
Continue ReadingChristy Linke To Be Installed As President of Florida Federation of Garden Clubs
Christy Linke’s journey to becoming the president of the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs (FFGC) is a testament to her passion, dedication and love for both horticulture and the community. A long-time member and leader of the Plant City Garden Club (PCGC), Linke will be installed as FFGC president at its April 10 meeting in […]
Continue ReadingSpring Cleaning and Well-Being
Baseboards and bathrooms and vents, oh my. While not everyone may enjoy their spring cleaning chores, it’s better than some other seasonal activities that occur during the same time frame, like writing a fat check to Uncle Sam or trying to figure out if the cat food purchased to feed stray cats is tax deductible […]
Continue ReadingMother-Daughter Duo Celebrates Six Sweet Years of Cookie Success at Florida Strawberry Festival
For six years, the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cookies has drawn crowds to one particular stand at the Florida Strawberry Festival. Behind the “sweet success” of the Cookie Barn is a mother-daughter duo with an unusual twist- only one of them knows the recipes. Head baker Stacy McDowell has been crafting her signature cookies […]
Continue ReadingThe Berry Best Mascots: Mr. & Miss Berry
Even though the Florida Strawberry Festival (FSF) has been welcoming visitors through its gates to enjoy berries, berries and more berries since 1930 (then known as the Plant City Strawberry Festival), Mr. And Miss Berry, the official mascots of the 11-day event, didn’t make their first appearance until Feb. 10, 1993. That is, Mr. Berry […]
Continue ReadingSweeten Up Life With Homemade Strawberry Jam
As folks revel in the sweet peak of strawberry season, and you’ve had your fill of eating them right out of the container or field, it’s time to figure out what to do with all those ripe, gorgeous red berries so you can enjoy their flavor months after the season is over. Freezing strawberries isn’t […]
Continue ReadingKnow Before You Go
Planning ahead will make your visit to the 2025 Florida Strawberry Festival even more fruitful. Please take a few minutes to look over these answers to your questions. How much is admission? Regular admission at the gate is $15 for ages 13 and up, $5 for children ages 6 to 12 and always FREE for […]
Continue ReadingNew Midway Rides Sure to Thrill
For thrill seekers of all ages, there’s something about experiencing the physical sensation of terror while knowing you’re safe on some level that is absolutely satisfying. While the Florida Strawberry Festival has contracted with a different midway company this year, that doesn’t mean that those seeking that rush won’t find it on one (or more) […]
Continue ReadingBattle of Berries/Where to Get Your Strawberry Shortcake
Whether a lifelong berry lover or a first-time visitor, the Florida Strawberry Festival has something to satisfy every craving. Festival goers can delight in a wide variety of mouth-watering strawberry-inspired treats, from refreshing strawberry milkshakes that are thick and creamy to strawberry pizza, a buttery shortbread crust, cream cheese spread topped with fresh strawberries and […]
Continue ReadingPlant City Native Prepares For NFL Draft
Photo courtesy of Colby Grant of GrantVisuals Plant Ctiy native and Boston College alum Treshaun Ward has come a long way since his days playing football with the Turkey Creek Trojans. But those were spectacular days. In fact, the Plant City Observer featured Ward as its Player of the Week on Aug. 8, 2013, when […]
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