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 ReadingFlorida Strawberry Festival
WORLD’S LARGEST SHORTCAKE
In August 1998, Watsonville, California made the largest strawberry shortcake on record with a 175-foot by four-foot version created during the city’s Strawberry Dessert Festival. The bakers made 260 sheet cakes, used 2,400 pounds of berries, and scooped on 600 pounds of whipped topping. According to the account in the book, “Remembering Plant City: Tales […]
Continue ReadingVOLUNTEERS CONTRIBUTE TIME AND SOUTHERN HOSPITALITY
“My road to volunteering began in 2021 with the GFWC Junior Women’s Club of Plant City,” Amanda Lagunes said. “My friends and fellow club members invited me to volunteer with them at the Strawberry Festival’s Information Booth, where we had the opportunity to connect with visitors, showcase our town, and share what makes Plant City […]
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 ReadingFlorida Strawberry Festival New Foods Tempt Festival Goers
As the Florida Strawberry Festival opens Feb. 27, it’s time for hungry (and adventurous) Plant Citians to dive into the array of new food offerings at this year’s festival. While you may be eagerly awaiting your chance to get in line for the festival’s staple dishes (Amish donuts, Fiske fries, Smitty’s corndogs or strawberry shortcake), […]
Continue ReadingThe Florida Strawberry Festival’s Historical Queens
The Florida Strawberry Festival has always supported a Queen’s Exhibit that honors the current queen and her court. For many years, the exhibit was housed in the center of the Parke Building. In 2015, the exhibit was moved into the newly constructed Neighborhood Village, where photos of all former queens and courts were displayed in […]
Continue ReadingCHARITY RAFFLE HELD AT FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
The Florida Strawberry Festival is once again partnering with Stingray Chevrolet for the 16th annual Charity Raffle. This year’s raffle features a brand-spankin’ new 2025 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible 2LT generously donated by Stingray Chevrolet. All proceeds will benefit Unity in the Community, a local organization dedicated to supporting underprivileged families and youth programs in […]
Continue ReadingWelcome to the 90th annual Florida Strawberry Festival
Dear Plant City Community, As President of the Florida Strawberry Festival, I am excited to invite you to celebrate BerryFest25 with us from February 27 to March 9 in Plant City! This year’s theme, “The Stage Is Set!,” highlights the exciting new developments that promise to enhance the festival experience and showcase the talents of […]
Continue ReadingLinda Walden, Chairman of Florida Strawberry Festival Fashion Show & Luncheon, Retires After 35 Years
Linda Walden was in her 30s the first time she worked the runway at the Florida Strawberry Festival’s inaugural Fashion Show & Luncheon, held in the basement of First Presbyterian Church. She walked the runway in a yellow polyester dress from Hooker’s Department Store in downtown Plant City. She became an annual presence at the […]
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