The 91st Florida Strawberry Festival in Plant City offers unique foods, entertainment and new safety features.
PLANT CITY, Fla. — The Florida Strawberry Festival is officially underway in Plant City, marking its 91st year with a theme organizers say is “still growing.”
That growth is evident across the fairgrounds in 2026 — from more than 20 new menu items and a revamped midway, to upgraded entertainment and a new high-tech focus on family safety.
This year’s festival is serving up 21 brand-new foods, including the viral Strawberry Dubai Chocolate Funnel Cake, Strawberry BBQ Eggrolls, and Strawberry Apple Fries.
“This is something that you’re not going to find really anywhere,” said Cary Seaholm, who’s serving up the apple fries. “So coming here, finding something unique that you don’t make at home — it really lends itself to fairgoers.”
Food isn’t the only upgrade. A brand-new entertainment soundstage debuts this year, designed to improve the concert experience. Headliners include Riley Green and The Offspring, along with added comfort zones featuring more restrooms and shaded areas.
“We don’t want to stay stagnant with the same projects we’ve always had,” said vendor Tyler Trussell. “We want to try to release something new and give customers something exciting to try.”
Safety is also front and center with the launch of the new “Berry Safe Kids” initiative. Parents can pick up QR-coded wristbands designed to help quickly reunite families if a child becomes separated.
“It’s just peace of mind,” said parent Cecilia Nunez. “In case they run off and we lose track of them — which we hopefully don’t.”
On the midway, visitors will find more than 80 rides and attractions, including the America 250 observation wheel — the largest portable wheel in the world, standing 230 feet tall with views stretching up to 14 miles.
“It was comfortable up there,” said festival visitor Xavier Lindsay. “You could see everything — all the rides, all the people. It was very good.”
For those who prefer tradition, the festival still features daily livestock shows, youth programs, parades, and longtime favorites like strawberry shortcake and corn dogs. New this year, a Strawberry Mashed Potato Pie Eating Contest debuts March 7, adding a quirky twist to the lineup.
The Florida Strawberry Festival runs through March 8. Organizers say advance ticket discounts are available, along with special savings days such as Senior Day and Ride-A-Thon Thursdays.
For a complete festival guide — including hours, concert dates, ride information, food vendors, and discount days — visit our guide.