Addison Griffin
Photo courtesy of Jose Lozoya
Age: 18
Education: Freshman at Hillsborough College
What inspired you to compete in the Florida Strawberry Festival Queens pageant?
I grew up in this town and at the festival. Every little girl growing up looks up to the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen when they walk through the festival gates, and it is truly special to be part of such a meaningful tradition.
I competed in the pageant for three years. In my first year, I placed in the top 10 but did not advance to the court, while my sister was crowned Queen and I watched her live out her dream. I returned the following year and walked away without a title, but that experience taught me that everything happens in God’s timing. When something is truly your calling, it continues to pull at your heart no matter the season of life you’re in.
Since that time, I graduated high school, started college, watched my friends move away, began a new job and experienced many changes. I thought it might be time to let go of this dream, but I could not shake it. It remained on my heart.
I share my story to encourage others that if God places something on your heart, you should not ignore it. It is there for a reason, and His timing is never late. One of the most special things about this court is that many of us are returners, which shows that when you put your heart and mind into something, no one can stop you.
How did you prepare for the pageant- mentally, physically, emotionally?
For me, preparation was about leaning into what I felt God was leading me to do. There was a time when I thought it might be best to step away from this dream—not because I wasn’t capable or didn’t want it, but because I was in a different season of life. In preparing for this pageant, I had to trust that God has a plan for me and rely on the support of those around me. I truly believe that your village matters and that the people you surround yourself with shape your journey.
This is a busy season, and preparation takes a lot of time and effort. I spent hours practicing my walk, sometimes in my driveway after dark with my car headlights on to create enough space. All the small steps add up to the moment you see today. For me, it was essential to surround myself with people who helped me stay focused, positive, and motivated to chase my dreams. You can’t do it alone—that’s why there is a Queen AND her Court. We are a team, and together we serve this community.
What part of the pageant experience challenged you the most?
The part of the pageant that challenged me the most was stepping outside my comfort zone on stage, especially in casual wear. I’m not shy, but I tend to be reserved, so turning up the energy and showing a more spunky, outgoing side of myself was difficult at first. Evening gown was easier for me because I enjoy the slower pace, but casual wear required me to give everything I had in that one moment. My motto is that you only get one chance, and you don’t want to miss it. Pushing myself in that way was challenging, but ultimately it was exciting and well worth it.
What is your favorite Florida Strawberry Festival memory- past or present?
My favorite Florida Strawberry Festival memory is growing up in the Grimes Building showing my livestock. I was an exhibitor for eight years, and that’s where I felt most connected to my community. The community consistently supports youth exhibitors, and I experienced some of my highest highs and lowest lows in that barn, always knowing they were there for me. I am so grateful now to walk back into the Grimes Building wearing a sash, living out my dream and serving my community at the same time.
What message do you want to share with young girls who look up to you?
The message I would share with young girls is that it’s okay to do scary things. It’s not always easy to put your heart on the line, especially for something that may have set you back in the past. I would also encourage them to be thankful and patient during the seasons of waiting, because those times are preparing you for what’s to come and shaping your testimony. Over the past two years, being redirected has strengthened my own story, and there is power in sharing that journey. I want young girls to know that even when it feels scary, they can trust in God and achieve their goals if they remain determined and faithful.
Do you have a good luck charm or tradition you brought with you?
For me, my good luck charm was knowing that my village was supporting me. Even though they couldn’t be backstage, they left little notes and Bible verses on my mirrors and on my clothing rack. Everything I needed had a verse attached to it, reminding me that I had the Lord with me and that my family and friends would be there to support me as soon as I stepped out from behind the curtains.
What is your favorite Florida Strawberry Festival food?
My favorite Florida Strawberry Festival foods are Fiske fries and the Brandon Farms strawberry milkshakes near Gate One. They’re so good and I’m pretty sure I had a milkshake every day during one festival. I also get Fiske fries nearly every day, and I always have to get them with the cheese sauce—it’s the only way to eat them. The milkshakes strike the perfect balance: not too sweet to upset your stomach, but refreshing and delicious. Anytime my mom, my sisters or I have a break, we like to walk around and enjoy a quick snack of fries or a milkshake. Those are my go-to treats at the festival.
If you could describe this moment in a few words, what would they be?
If I could describe this moment in a few words, it would be “answered prayers.” There is something powerful about being persistent in prayer and spending time with the Lord—it brings a sense of peace and understanding that even when things seem uncertain, God has a purpose and is guiding you through each season of life. When my number was called as the last of the top five, I heard everyone cheering, and I knew that so many people were genuinely happy for me because they know my story and what it took to get here. I can’t imagine how many people were praying for me, and I felt God smiling from above, showing me that His will had been at work all along. Seeing His plan unfold for me in that moment was incredible and truly indescribable.
