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 […]
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SPECIAL SMILES DAY DOUBLES IN SIZE THIS YEAR
Nearly everone who works for the Strawberry Festival, and the volunteers who help Festival-goers, say their favorite thing at the Festival is Special Smiles Day. Friday kicked off with the morning adapted for special needs kids. For this annual event, the Strawberry Festival turns off sounds and lights to accommodate those who are unable to […]
Continue ReadingSTRAWBERRY FESTIVAL GOVERNOR’S LUNCHEON TOOK PLACE ON MONDAY
On Monday, the Florida Strawberry Festival held its annual Governor’s Luncheon at the Trinkle Center on the Hillsborough Community College campus in Plant City. After the lunch, a law enforcement honor guard marched in with the U.S. and Florida flags. Pew Wee Callins, pastor of Greater New Hope Anointed Ministries, gave an invocation, followed by […]
Continue ReadingAnnistyn Faith Griffin says Farewell
Photo courtesy of Jose Lozoya My greatest honor has truly been representing not only the festival, but the entire Plant City Community. Since childhood, the festival has always been a part of my life. The eleven days each year remind me of why Plant City is so special. I genuinely believe the Florida Strawberry Festival […]
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 ReadingSARA EVANS IS COMING TO PLANT CITY
Sara Evans will perform at the Florida Strawberry Festival on March 4 at 3:30 p.m. The capabilities of the new, larger, upgraded Wish Farms Soundstage allows the Festival to bring in top-tier talent like Evans. “I am so excited to play the Florida Strawberry Festival!” Evans commented. “We’ll be playing some of your favorite hits, […]
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 ReadingWORLD’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 […]
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