McDaniel has served Plant City for more than four decades.
Bill McDaniel has been named the distinguished parade marshal of the 2026 Florida Strawberry Festival Grand Parade, an honor parade organizers said reflects decades of leadership, service, and commitment to the community.
Berry Fine Productions, Inc., which organizes the annual parade, announced McDaniel’s selection as part of preparations for the 2026 festival. The festival’s theme, “Still Growing,” guided the committee’s decision.
“Selecting our parade marshal is a thoughtful process that reflects the values and spirit of both our festival and the community,” Gail Lyons of Berry Fine Productions said. “This year, Bill McDaniel was chosen because of his outstanding commitment to the growth and well-being of Plant City.”
McDaniel has served as city manager since 2018 and has spent more than 40 years in local government. Lyons said his leadership, vision, and respect for tradition made him a unanimous choice.
“Our committee agreed that his ongoing dedication- not just in guiding the city through progress, but in respecting and preserving our traditions- truly embodies what we want to honor and highlight at this year’s parade,” she said.
For McDaniel, the honor carries deep personal meaning.
“My association with the Strawberry Festival Grand Parade goes back to early childhood, and some of my earliest memories are of standing along the route watching community leaders and special guests take part in a tradition that felt uniquely Plant City,” he said. “To now be asked to serve in that same capacity is both humbling and sincerely appreciated.”
Professionally, McDaniel said he views the honor as recognition of a lifetime of public service rather than an individual achievement.
“I have worked every parade for more than four decades as a police officer, supervisor, chief, and now as city manager,” he said. “The parade has always represented teamwork, preparation, and pride in serving others. Being selected as the parade marshal allows me to represent the many city employees who quietly and tirelessly support this event year after year.”
The 2026 Florida Strawberry Festival Grand Parade is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Mon., March 2. Road closures will begin at 8:00 a.m. It showcases Plant City’s local businesses, royalty, civic organizations, churches, and more.
The parade route will begin on Evers Street, turn west onto Reynolds Street, and conclude at Sammonds Road. Organizers said new security measures are being implemented to maintain safety for participants and spectators, so select your viewing spot early.
