Quick Read
- The Florida Strawberry Festival opened today, February 26, 2026, in Plant City, Florida.
- The festival runs for eleven days, concluding on March 8, 2026.
- It features live entertainment, rides, agricultural exhibits, and diverse strawberry-themed foods.
- Attendance reached a record 651,647 visitors in 2025, making it a significant economic driver.
- Discount admission tickets are available at participating Publix supermarkets.
PLANT CITY (Azat TV) – The Florida Strawberry Festival, a beloved annual tradition celebrating the region’s abundant strawberry harvest, officially opened its gates today, Thursday, February 26, 2026, in Plant City, Florida. Running through March 8, the festival is set to draw hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world, offering a vibrant mix of live entertainment, thrilling rides, agricultural showcases, fine arts, and, of course, a vast array of strawberry-centric culinary delights.
The kickoff of the 2026 festival marks another chapter for an event that has been a cornerstone of Plant City’s identity since 1930, interrupted only by World War II. Recognized as one of the nation’s premier festivals, it consistently ranks among the Top 40 Fairs in North America, highlighting its enduring appeal and significant draw.
Florida Strawberry Festival: A Hub of Entertainment and Agriculture
The 2026 Florida Strawberry Festival is more than just a celebration of fruit; it’s a comprehensive cultural experience. Visitors can expect a diverse lineup of musical acts, ranging from country legends like The Oak Ridge Boys, Alabama, and Dierks Bentley, to contemporary stars such as Riley Green and Lauren Daigle. The festival is also known for its rapid ticket sales for popular shows, with Forrest Frank’s performance this year noted as one of the fastest-selling in the event’s history, according to event organizers.
Beyond the stage, the festival grounds are transformed into a bustling hub of activity. Attendees can enjoy a wide variety of rides and explore numerous vendors offering everything from handcrafted goods to unique food items. The agricultural roots of the festival are prominently displayed, showcasing the more than 10,000 acres of strawberries planted annually in the local area, which serve as the foundation for this grand celebration.
Economic Impact and Visitor Growth for Plant City
The Florida Strawberry Festival continues to be a major economic engine for Plant City and the broader Central Florida region. In 2025, the festival set a record with an estimated attendance of 651,647 visitors, underscoring its growing popularity and significant tourist draw. This influx of visitors translates into substantial revenue for local businesses, accommodations, and service providers throughout the festival’s eleven-day run.
The festival’s ability to consistently attract large crowds, despite evolving entertainment landscapes, speaks to its unique blend of tradition, community spirit, and high-quality offerings. Its reputation as a family-friendly event with broad appeal ensures its sustained relevance and economic contribution to the state.
Planning Your Visit to the 2026 Strawberry Festival
The Florida Strawberry Festival is held at 303 BerryFest Place in Plant City, located about 20 miles east of Tampa. Festival hours are from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Gate admission costs $15 for adults (ages 13+), $5 for children (ages 6-12), and is free for children aged 5 and under with a paid adult admission. Discount tickets are available at participating Publix supermarkets in Central Florida, offering savings of $5 for adults and $1 for children.
Parking is available in 11 lots around the festival grounds for $10, cash only, with lots opening at 9 a.m. Specific handicapped parking is located across from the Amscot Main Gate and in the Red parking lot. Visitors should note that bottles, cans, coolers, or picnic baskets are not permitted inside the gates, and all bags are subject to search. Only service or guide dogs are allowed on the festival grounds.
The enduring success of the Florida Strawberry Festival underscores its critical role not only as a cultural touchstone celebrating Florida’s agricultural bounty but also as a powerful economic catalyst, consistently attracting hundreds of thousands and reinforcing Plant City’s identity as the heart of the state’s strawberry industry.