The 2016 Florida Strawberry Festival saw some of the festival's highest-ever attendance records for its 81st year.
Throughout the 11-day festival, which lasted from Thursday, March 3, to Sunday, March 13, a total of 560,487 visitors came to the grounds. The visitors watched livestock shows, bought food and trinkets from vendors, attended concerts and enjoyed rides and other entertainment.
General Manager Paul Davis was impressed with this year's turnout.
"We had a phenomenal run, and we are truly thankful," Davis said. "We had terrific weather, good crowds and everyone seemed to be enjoying time with their families."
Vendors had a successful festival, too. Belle City Amusements Inc., the carnival company that provides the rides for the Florida Strawberry Festival, reported a sales increase of 18%.
"We want to say thank you to our patrons, vendors, concessionaires, community volunteers, sponsors, and everyone who had a hand in making our festival a success," Davis said. "This event is a team effort, and we look forward to seeing everyone again in 2017."
Festival patrons can start counting down to next year. The 2017 Florida Strawberry Festival will be held from March 2 to March 12, 2017.
Contact Emily Topper at etopper@plantcityobserver.com.