Every spring, one of Florida’s most beloved traditions returns to Plant City — the Florida Strawberry Festival! This iconic event celebrates the state’s sweetest crop with family fun, live entertainment, delicious food, and endless southern charm.
Just over an hour’s drive from Orlando, the festival makes for a perfect day trip for guests staying in Orlando vacation rentals, Davenport vacation homes, or Florida vacation rentals near Disney. Whether you’re here for the strawberry shortcake, the concerts, or the fair rides, the festival offers a true taste of Florida sunshine.
A Tradition Rooted in Florida’s Farming Heritage
Since 1930, the Florida Strawberry Festival has honored the local farmers who put Plant City on the map as the “Winter Strawberry Capital of the World.” What started as a small community event has grown into one of the largest and most celebrated festivals in the Southeast, drawing visitors from all over the country.
Today, the event features parades, livestock shows, artisan vendors, carnival rides, and of course — plenty of strawberries in every form imaginable.
Savor the Sweetness
At the heart of the festival is, of course, the strawberry. You’ll find them dipped in chocolate, baked into pies, blended into milkshakes, and layered high with whipped cream in the festival’s world-famous strawberry shortcake.
Visitors can watch live cooking demonstrations, meet local growers, and sample freshly picked berries straight from the farm. Every bite is a reminder of why Florida’s strawberries are among the best in the world.
Live Entertainment for All Ages
Each year, the festival lineup features top musical performances, from country legends to pop stars and local talent. Guests can enjoy concerts under the Florida sky, followed by fair-style food, carnival games, and midway rides that light up the night.
Families especially love the mix of classic fair nostalgia and modern fun — a true small-town celebration with big-time excitement.
Family Fun and Local Flavor
Beyond the sweet treats, there’s plenty to keep every member of the family entertained:
- Rides and attractions for all ages
- Petting zoos and agricultural exhibits that teach kids about Florida farming
- Arts and crafts vendors showcasing handmade goods
- Daily parades filled with floats, marching bands, and local charm
The festival perfectly captures Florida’s community spirit — a blend of tradition, hospitality, and heart.
A Perfect Day Trip from Orlando
The Florida Strawberry Festival takes place each March in Plant City, conveniently located between Orlando and Tampa. Guests staying in Orlando villas or Davenport vacation rentals can make it a fun-filled day trip — enjoy the morning at the festival, then return to your private vacation home for an evening swim or backyard barbecue.
For travelers exploring vacation rentals near Disney, it’s a great way to experience a different side of Florida — one filled with local flavor and family fun, just beyond the theme parks.
Come Home to Comfort After the Celebration
After a day of sweet indulgence and sunshine, your Florida vacation home is the perfect retreat. Our Orlando vacation rentals feature:
- Private screened pools and patios
- Spacious living areas and family kitchens
- Game rooms, home theaters, and resort-style amenities
- Close proximity to all major Central Florida attractions
With our trusted property management in Orlando, every home is guest-ready, spotless, and designed for comfort — giving you the perfect end to a perfect Florida day.
Experience the Sweet Side of Central Florida
The Florida Strawberry Festival isn’t just an event — it’s a celebration of everything that makes the Sunshine State special: community, flavor, and fun.
✅ Savor Florida’s sweetest treats
✅ Enjoy live entertainment and local culture
✅ Experience an authentic Florida tradition — just a short drive from Orlando
Come for the strawberries, stay for the memories — and make this year’s Florida getaway truly unforgettable.
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