It's that time of year for strawberry fans to see the literal fruits of the season's harvest at this year's Florida Strawberry Festival.
The 11-day Plant City festival runs from Feb. 26 through March 8.
The celebration of eastern Hillsborough County’s strawberry harvest is expected to draw over 600,000 visitors and will feature vendors, youth livestock shows, music and strawberry shortcake.
For its 91st iteration, the festival is using the theme, "Still Growing."
“We’re honored to welcome an incredible lineup of artists,” said Kyle Robinson, the Florida Strawberry Festival president, in a press release, "including Forrest Frank, Alabama, Riley Green, Dierks Bentley, Ty Myers, Lonestar, and many more, whose talent and energy will light up our stage.”
A sneak peak at new foods
Florida Strawberry Festival President Kyle Robinson says the event has always been rooted in tradition, but organizers are proud to keep finding new ways to grow.
“From innovative new food offerings to the addition of new buildings on our grounds, each year brings something fresh for our guests to experience. The theme ‘Still Growing’ reflects not only our agricultural heritage, but our ongoing commitment to enhancing the Festival for future generations.”
Festival-goers can expect classic comfort foods with a twist, globally inspired flavors — and, of course, tasty, new dishes.
Here are a few of them:
Strawberry Crunch Nachos – Sweet Missions Sweet waffle cone chips, cheesecake dip, fresh strawberries, strawberry crunch topping, and a sweet glaze drizzle. Located on the westside of Softtub Carriage House.
Strawberry BBQ Egg Roll – Double T Enterprises A bold fusion featuring savory barbecue flavors with a touch of strawberry sweetness wrapped in a crispy egg roll. Located West of Arthur Boring Building.
Dubai Strawberry Chocolate Cups – Super Crunch Fresh strawberries layered with rich chocolate and crunchy textures inspired by popular Dubai dessert trends. Located in the TECO Expo Hall.
See a more comprehensive list of foods here.
Musical acts
A usual mix of country, Christian and nostalgic acts are back in the festival's entertainment lineup.
The artists will perform on the Wish Farms Soundstage.
Full lineup:
Thursday, Feb. 26
10:30 a.m. Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra (free w/paid gate admission)
3:30 p.m. The Oak Ridge Boys
7:30 p.m. Alabama
Friday, Feb. 27
3:30 p.m. Jo Dee Messina
7:30 p.m. Jamey Johnson
Saturday, Feb. 28
3:30 p.m. Lonestar
7:30 p.m. Ty Myers
Sunday, March 1
6:30 p.m. Riley Green featuring Hannah McFarland
Monday, March 2
3:30 p.m. Gene Watson
7:30 p.m. Legends of Love featuring Brian McKnight, Ginuwine & Ruben Studdard
Tuesday, March 3
3:30 p.m. Sandi Patty
7:30 p.m. Lauren Daigle
Wednesday, March 4
3:30 p.m. John Foster
7:30 p.m. Brantley Gilbert
Thursday, March 5
10:30 a.m. Bill Haley Jr. & The Comets (free w/paid gate admission)
3:30 p.m. The Bellamy Brothers
7:30 p.m. Dierks Bentley
Friday, March 6
3:30 p.m. The Marshall Tucker Band
7:30 p.m. Forrest Frank (SOLD OUT)
Saturday, March 7
3:30 p.m. Pitbull Toddler (free w/paid gate admission)
7:30 p.m. The Offspring
Sunday, March 8
7:30 p.m. Joan Jett and the Blackhearts
New guest experiences and services
Guests will notice new buildings and upgraded services, which organizers say will "improve comfort and convenience."
These include:
Central Florida Exterior Comfort Zone - Provides shaded seating, misting fans, and charging stations.
T-Mobile Tram Services and Parking Updates - Expanded parking options now feature easy-to-identify, color-coded lot designations and new tram stops.
BayCare Center - The new 15,000 square-foot multipurpose building features climate-controlled men’s and women’s restrooms, the Entenmann’s Stage, a welcoming open seating area, space for nearly 20 craft vendors, and a permanent shortcake booth.
To purchase tickets, visit the Strawberry Festival website.
