2022 FSF

BIG NAME ARTISTS RETURN TO STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

Headline music entertainment will resume in 2022 fest

Last year, patrons once again experienced all the glamour that comes along with attending the Florida Strawberry Festival as they have in years past. The endless strawberry-filled oods, the competitions, animal shows, games, and rides are already a given when stepping on the premises. However, there was one fun and highly-demanded component that was missing at the 2021 festival – the headline entertainment. The COVID-19 pandemic put the music attractions on hold.

The anticipation that builds up when guests are about to see their favorite artists live and sing along to their hits, was lacking. However, at the 2022 Florida Strawberry Festival, the headline entertainment will make its return, offering performances on all 11 days of the festival. Concertgoers can once again cheer as musicians take to the stage and amplify the fairgrounds with their songs.

While there will be artists gracing the festival for the fist time, there are familiar faces making their way back.

Here’s a sneak peak of returning acts that will be performing on the Wish Farms soundstage at 303 Lemon St., in Plant.

[Tickets can be purchased by calling 813-754-1996 or visiting FLStrawberryFestival.com. For additional information, call 813-752-9194.]

JIMMY STURR AND HIS ORCHESTRA

Jimmy Sturr and his Orchestra is truly a multi-talented band with saxophonists, trumpeters, and clarinetists. This year, Sturr and his orchestra will be returning with their polka music. The Grammyaward-winning artist and his group will have their show on Thursday, March 3, at 10:30 a.m. It will be free after paying gate

admission. The admission fee will be $10 for those age 13 and up; $5 for ages 6 to 12; children ages 5 and under have free admission. For more information, call 813752-9194 or visit FLStrawberryFestival. com.

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS

For over 50 years the Oak Ridge Boys have been creating gospel and country songs. The award-winning quartet has also produced over 40 albums. They will be performing on Thursday, March 3 at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $25.

BOYZ II MEN

Boyz II Men is one of the most iconic R&B groups who are still entertaining fans to this day. The Grammy Award-winning group is set to perform on Friday, March 4

at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $35.

CHICKS WITH HITS FEAT. TERRI CLARK, PAM TILLIS AND SUZY BOGGUSS

The award-winning country music trio, Chicks with Hits is set to perform on Sunday, March 6 at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $25.

RICKY NELSON REMEMBERED W/ MATTHEW AND GUNNAR NELSON

Twins Matthew and Gunnar formed a group to commemorate their late father and rock and roll artist, Ricky Nelson. They will perform on Tuesday, March 8 at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.

LEE GREENWOOD

Country music artist Lee Greenwood will return on Wednesday, March 9 at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $25.

THE LETTERMEN

The Lettermen, the trio known for romantic ballads, are making their return to the festival on Thursday, March 10 at 10:30 a.m. Tickets will be free after paying gate admission.

THE DRIFTERS, CORNELL GUNTER’S COASTERS AND THE PLATTERS

Combined, these groups have been associated with over 40 of what are considered rock and roll classic records. They will be performing on Thursday, March 10 at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.

GENE WATSON

The Texas native is a country music icon with a 60-year career. He will perform on Friday, March 11 at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.

BOBBY BONES AND THE RAGING IDIOTS

This country-music duo is known for having a comedic edge to their shows. They will be performing on Saturday, March 12 at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $35.

THE BELLAMY BROTHERS

The two-man band known as the Bellamy Brothers, transitioned from pop to country music throughout their career. They will take to the stage on Sunday, March 13 at 3:30 p.m. Tickets are $20.

Jimmy Sturr The Grammy Award-winning Jimmy Sturr and his Orchestra group will perform at the festival, on Thursday, March 3. Courtesy of the Florida Strawberry Festival

The Bellamy Brothers The brother duo known as the Bellamy Brothers will perform country songs at the festival, on Sunday, March 13. Courtesy of the Florida Strawberry Festival

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FESTIVAL EVENTS SCHEDULE

THURSDAY, MARCH 3RD

FLORIDA BLUE SENIOR DAY/ O’REILLY AUTO PARTS RIDE-ATHON DAY

10:00 a.m. Gates Open, Midway opens at Noon.

10:30 a.m. to Noon. Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra at Wish Farms Soundstage

11:45 a.m. Senior Citizens Drawing at Wish Farms Soundstage (One drawing only — MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN)

2:00 p.m. Deep Fried Strawberry Pie on a Stick Relay at Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent

3:30 p.m. The Oak Ridge Boys at Wish Farms Soundstage

6:00 p.m. Rekindled Bits of Grass at Publix Showcase Tent

7:00 p.m. Mosaic Youth Swine Show at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

7:30 p.m. Lady A at Wish Farms Soundstage

FRIDAY, MARCH 4TH

PUBLIX FOOD AND FUN FRIDAY

10:00 a.m. Gates Open, Midway opens at Noon.

1:00 p.m. Dairy Contestant Judging at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

12:00 p.m. Amish Donut Eating Contest (Presented by Peachy’s) at Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent

3:30 p.m. The Beach Boys at Wish Farms Soundstage

6:00 p.m. Southbound at Publix Showcase Tent

7:00 p.m. Mosaic Youth Swine Sale at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

7:30 p.m. Boyz II Men at Wish Farms Soundstage

SATURDAY, MARCH 5

MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION

FREE KIDS DAY/CIRCLE K

SUPER SATURDAY WRISTBAND DAY

10:00 a.m. Gates Open, Midway opens at 10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m. Dairy Show Showmanship at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

1:00 p.m. Dairy Show at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

2:00 p.m. Youth Strawberry Stemming Contest at Stingray Chevrolet

Entertainment Tent

3:30 p.m. Home Free at Wish Farms Soundstage

6:00 p.m. Brake Fail at Publix Showcase Tent

7:30 p.m. Lauren Daigle at Wish Farms Soundstage

SUNDAY, MARCH 6TH

COCA-COLA FAMILY DAY

9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. Registration for Baby Contest (Hillsborough County Babies Only) at the Admin. Office.

10:00 a.m. Gates Open, Midway opens at 10:00 a.m.

10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Baby Contest: Decorated Diaper Contest; Baby Features Contest; Diaper Derby at Publix Showcase Tent

11:00 a.m. Dairy Showmanship (Adults) at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

11:30 a.m. Dairy Pee Wee Showmanship at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

12:30 p.m. Dairy Costume Ball at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

2:00 p.m. Youth Plant Sale at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

3:30 p.m. Chicks With Hits Featuring Terri Clark, Pam Tillis and Suzy Bogguss at Wish Farms Soundstage

6:00 p.m. Pastor “Pee Wee” Callins at Publix Showcase Tent

7:30 p.m. Sammy Hagar & The Circle at Wish Farms Soundstage

MONDAY, MARCH 7TH

ACE HARDWARE GRAND PARADE DAY/CASPERS COMPANY MCDONALD’S RIDEA-THON DAY

10:00 a.m. Gates Open, Midway opens at 10:00 a.m.

10:30 p.m. Invitational Parade Luncheon at Trinkle Center

1:00 p.m. Grand Parade Begins in Downtown Plant City

2:00 pm. Grand Parade Passes by the Festival at Reynolds St.

3:00 p.m. Lamb Jumping Contest at Patterson Co Livestock Arena

3:30 p.m. John Anderson at Wish Farms Soundstage

5:00 p.m. Strawberry Spaghetti Eating Contest at Stingray Chevrolet Enter-

tainment Tent

6:00 p.m. Kirstie Kraus at Publix

Showcase Tent

7:00 p.m. Lamb Costume Contest at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

7:30 p.m. Kenzie Wheeler at Wish Farms Soundstage

TUESDAY, MARCH 8TH

FLORIDA PEANUT FEDERATION TWOSDAY RIDE-A-THON

10:00 a.m. Gates Open, Midway opens at Noon.

Noon to 2:00 p.m. Peachey’s Youth Pretzel Making Clinic at the Kiddie Corral

2:00 p.m. Adult Strawberry Stemming Contest at Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent

3:00 p.m. Lamb Showmanship at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

3:30 p.m. Ricky Nelson Remembered Starring Matthew & Gunnar Nelson at Wish Farms Soundstage

5:00 p.m. Lamb Show at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

6:00 p.m. Reach City Worship at Publix Showcase Tent

7:30 p.m. Zach Williams at Wish Farms Soundstage

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9TH

GROW FINANCIAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION AMERICA HEROES DAY/RIDE-A-THON DAY

10:00 a.m. Gates Open, Midway opens at Noon.

1:00 p.m. Super Dog Mega Corndog Eating Contest at Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent

3:15 p.m. Honor American Heroes at Wish Farms Soundstage

3:30 p.m. Lee Greenwood at Wish Farms Soundstage

6:00 p.m. First Baptist Church Plant City Worship Team at Publix Showcase Tent

6:00 p.m. Mosaic Youth Steer Show at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

7:30 p.m. Jake Owen at Wish Farms Soundstage

THURSDAY, MARCH 10TH

FLORIDA BLUE SENIOR DAY/ O’REILLY AUTO PARTS RIDE-A-THON DAY

10:00 a.m. Gates Open, Midway opens at Noon.

10:30 to Noon. The Lettermen at Wish Farms Soundstage

11:45 a.m. Senior Citizens Drawing at Wish Farms Soundstage (One drawing only — MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN)

2:00 p.m. Strawberry Shortcake Eating Contest at Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent

3:30 p.m. The Drifters, Cornell Gunter’s Coasters & The Platters at Wish Farms Soundstage

6:00 p.m. Electric Woodshed at Publix Showcase Tent

7:00 p.m. Mosaic Youth Steer Showmanship at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

7:30 p.m. Tesla at Wish Farms Soundstage

FRIDAY, MARCH 11TH

TAMPA BAY TIMES DAY ON THE MIDWAY/MOONLIGHT MAGIC

10:00 a.m. Gates Open, Midway opens at Noon.

3:00 p.m. Strawberry Mashed Potato Pie Eating Contest at Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent

3:30 p.m. Gene Watson at Wish Farms Soundstage

6:00 p.m. Beef Breed Showmanship at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

6:00 p.m. Pastor “Pee Wee” Callins at Publix Showcase Tent

7:30 p.m. Cole Swindell at Wish Farms Soundstage

10:00 p.m. to 2:00 a.m. Moonlight Magic at the Midway

SATURDAY, MARCH 12TH

FARM WORKER APPRECIATION DAY/CIRCLE K SATURDAY WRISTBAND DAY

9:00 a.m. Registration for Livestock Judging Contest at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

10:00 a.m. Gates Open, Midway opens at 10:00 a.m.

10:00 a.m. Mosaic Youth Livestock Judging at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

10:15 a.m. Baby Parade at GT Grandstangs

3:30 p.m. Bobby Bones & The Raging Idiots at Wish Farms Soundstage

6:00 p.m. SickHot at Publix Showcase Tent

7:00 p.m. Mosaic Youth Steer Sale at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

7:30 p.m. Nelly at Wish Farms Sound Stage

SUNDAY, MARCH 13TH

COCA-COLA FAMILY DAY

10:00 a.m. Gates Open, Midway opens at 10:00 a.m.

11:00 a.m. Youth Beef Breed Show at Patterson Co. Livestock Arena

1:00 p.m. Kitchen Craft Cookware Drawing at Neighborhood Village

3:30 p.m. The Bellamy Brothers at Wish Farms Soundstage

5:00 p.m. HOLA Plant City! At Publix

Showcase Tent

5:00 p.m. Stingray Chevrolet Corvette

Drawing 7:30 p.m. Sam Hunt at Wish Farms Sound Stage ON GROUNDS DAILY

K9’s in Flight: Daily at noon, 2 and 4 p.m. Additional 6 p.m. shows on Saturdays and Sundays.

Sponsored By: The Bank of Tampa

Runa Pacha “Indian World”: Daily at 11 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6p.m. and 8 p.m.

Sponsored By: Verizon Wireless

Circus Incredible: Daily at 12:30 p.m., 3:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Sponsored By: Visions of Outdoor Living

Robinson’s Racing Pigs: Daily at 11 a.m., noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Sponsored By: Netterfields Concessions

Dakin Dairy Farmers Milking Parlor: Daily at noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Sponsored By: Bay 2 Bay Outdoor Services

Meet the Festival’s Official Mcots, “Mr. and Mrs. Berry”: Daily in the Orthotic Works Gazebo from 11-11:30 a.m., 3:30-4 p.m. and 5:30 to 6 p.m.

Rock-It The Robot: Daily at 1 p.m., 3 p.m. and 6 p.m.

Sponsored By: All American Gutter Protection

Belmont Festival of Magic Show: Daily at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Sponsored By: Absolute Vision Auto Glass.

FESTIVAL SERVICES

Badcock Home Furniture & More Mother & Baby Suite: TECO Expo Hall

Images Everywhere!: Festival Photos Available at Gates 1, 5, 13, 14 and 16

Lost & Found Caboose: East end of the Roy & Helen Parke Building

Sponsored By: WonderPax

Carolina ATM’s are located near Woodrow Wilson Street, the TECO Expo Hall, the Arthur Boring Building and other locations throughout the Festival.

Direct Auto Insurance Hand Washing Stations: Located throughout the grounds.

Portillo’s Restrooms: Complimentary attendant services available.

Information Booths sponsored by Uncommon USA

Wheelchairs, Electric Scooters and Strollers: Available for rent at Gates 1, 14, 16 and Tour Bus Lot across from Gate 10.

T-Mobile Trams running from Red, Blue and Gray Parking Lots to Gates 10 and 14.

File photo

GUIDE TO DISCOUNTS AT THE FESTIVAL

Each year, the Florida Strawberry Festival offers deals and discounts for each day throughout the 11-day event.

Whether it’s discounted tickets, free goodies or saving some money on wristbands for a day full of energizing rides along the midway, there’s always a deal for you at the Florida Strawberry Festival.

The festival’s “Discount Days” have long been a staple at the event, offering unique deals to save patrons a few bucks. While some of the deals are readily available at entry, others will require some planning some if you want to take advantage. But by digging through this list, you can surely find a Dicount Day that work’s best for you.

THURSDAY, MARCH 3RD

FLORIDA BLUE SENIOR DAY

Patrons age 60 years of age and older will get $2 off f their standard gate admission of $10. Additionally, a prize will be given away at 11:45 on each Senior Day to the lucky senior citizen whose ticket is drawn from the barrel. The drawing will take place on the Wish Farms Soundstage following the 10:30 a.m. show. Tickets for the drawing will be available to all seniors in the stadium and you must be present to win.

O’REILLY AUTO PARTS RIDE-ATHON DAY, NOON TO 11 P.M.

A wristband purchased at the Midway for $25 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for one low price. Present a voucher from participating O’Reilly Auto Parts stores at the Midway ticket booth to receive $5 off f the $25 wristband and ride all day for just $20.

FRIDAY, MARCH 4TH

PUBLIX FOOD AND FUN FRIDAY

Present any Publix or GreenWise branded non-perishable and receive a voucher for $5 off f the $30 wristband and ride most mechanical rides all day for only $25.

SATURDAY, MARCH 5

MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION FREE KIDS DAY

Hey kids, it’s your day! Kids through high school age are admitted FREE.

CIRCLE K SUPER SATURDAY WRISTBAND DAY, 10A.M. TO 11 P.M.

A wristband purchased at the Midway for $35 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical

rides for one low price. Present a Circle K register receipt and receive $5 off f the $35 dollar wristband and ride most mechanical rides all day for only $30.

SUNDAY, MARCH 6TH

COCA-COLA FAMILY DAY, 10

A.M. TO 11 P.M.

Present any empty CocaCola brand can or plastic bottle product at the entry gate to receive a voucher for $5 off f the $30 wristband and ride most mechanical rides all day for only $25. Can or bottle is not valid for gate admission, one can or bottle per person.

MONDAY, MARCH 7TH

CASPERS COMPANY MCDONALD’S RIDE-A-THON DAY, 10 TO 11 P.M.

A wristband purchased at the Midway for $25 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for one low price. Present a McDonalds register receipt and receive $5 off f the $25 dollar wristband and ride most mechanical rides all day for only $20.

TUESDAY, MARCH 8TH

FLORIDA PEANUT FEDERATION

TWOSDAY RIDE-A-THON, NOON TO 11 P.M.

It’s another day for the kids! From noon to 11 p.m., ALL kids up to 17 years old are admitted FREE with a paid adult. In addition, enjoy a special day full of deals on rides at the Festival. Ride any single ride for $2, or ride most mechanical rides all day with the purchase of a $25 wristband at the Midway.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9TH

GROW FINANCIAL FEDERAL CREDIT UNION AMERICA HEROES DAY

active, reserve and retired military veterans, law enforcement, fist responders and

healthcare workers are admitted FREE with a valid ID.

GROW FINANCIAL FEDERAL

CREDIT UNION RIDE-A-THON DAY

A wristband purchased for $25 at the Midway will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for one low price.

THURSDAY, MARCH 10TH

FLORIDA BLUE SENIOR DAY

Patrons age 60 years of age and older will get $2 off f their standard gate admission of $10. Additionally, a prize will be given away at 11:45 on each Senior Day to the lucky senior citizen whose ticket is drawn from the barrel. The drawing will take place on the Wish Farms Soundstage following the 10:30 a.m. show. Tickets for the drawing will be available to all seniors in the stadium and you must be present to win.

O’REILLY AUTO PARTS

RIDE-A-THON DAY

A wristband purchased at the Midway for $25 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for one low price. Present a voucher from participating O’Reilly Auto Parts stores at the Midway ticket booth to receive $5 off f the $25 wristband and ride all day for just $20.

FRIDAY, MARCH 11TH

TAMPA BAY TIMES DAY ON THE MIDWAY, NOON TO 10 P.M.

Present a coupon from the Tampa Bay Times to receive $5 off f the $20 Fun Pack Ride Coupon Book.

MOONLIGHT MAGIC, 10 P.M. TO 2 A.M.

With the festival extending their hours to 2 p.m., you’ll have the opportunity to ride most mechanical rides under the moonlight for one special price of $30 per person. All patrons entering the Midway will be required to purchase a wristband (NO WRISTBANDS AVAILABLE UNTIL 10 P.M.)

SATURDAY, MARCH 12TH

CIRCLE K SUPER SATURDAY WRISTBAND DAY, 10 TO 11 P.M.

A wristband purchased at the Midway for $35 will entitle the wearer to ride most mechanical rides for one low price. Present a Circle K register receipt and receive $5 off f the $35 dollar wristband and ride most mechanical rides all day for only $30.

SUNDAY, MARCH 13TH

COCA-COLA FAMILY DAY, 10 TO 11 P.M.

Present any empty CocaCola brand can or plastic bottle product at the entry gate to receive a voucher for $5 off f the $30 wristband and ride most mechanical rides all day for only $25. Can or bottle is not valid for gate admission, one can or bottle per person.

TAYLOR JENKINS STAFF WRITER

WELCOME to the 87th annual Florida Strawberry Festival

For decades the city of Plant City has been known around the globe for producing some of the sweetest, most beautiful strawberries grown anywhere in the world. Many say it’s our “claim to fame.” In fact, if you don’t know much about the abundant strawberry harvest in Plant City, one of our residents will be quick to inform you of just how important the commodity is to our local economy and the spirit of our community.

The truth is, the people of Plant City have been proud of the strawberry for decades. We incorporate it in the name of our businesses, we wear it on our clothes, we dedicate tens of thousands of acres of our land to their growth and, best of all, we annually invite more than 500,000 visitors to join us in celebrating each season’s harvest. Today, the 87th Annual Florida Strawberry Festival will begin and I would like to personally invite you, your family and friends to join us in celebrating this milestone year for our city and our agricultural community.

Throughout the last 87 years, we have seen hard times and we have been blessed beyond measure. Our very fist festival in 1930 featured local entertainers, a high-wire act, an animal show and, of course, strawberries. It was a humble beginning, but it set a tremendous foundation for the festival we know today. We have felt the effects of economic struggles, worked through the grief of wars and met the demands of an ever-evolving society. In the best of times and in the worst of times, the Florida Strawberry Festival has provided our citizens and our visitors a place to simply have fun with their families for the past 87 years, and we’re so proud of that.

For our 87th year, we have an exciting festival planned just for you. We’re inviting 24 of the country’s top entertainers, bringing in over 80 of the most exciting rides, hosting hundreds of youth exhibitors in seven different livestock shows, displaying the artwork, photographs and homemade items thousands of our local residents enter into competition, cooking up some of the tastiest treats from hundreds of food vendors and, most of all, picking more strawberries than you could ever imagine for shortcakes, milkshakes, cheesecakes, cobblers, ice cream and more.

For several years now, we have proudly partnered with Publix Supermarket stores to bring discounted admission tickets to you and your family to make your visit as cost effective as possible. For information on admission tickets, concert tickets, events and more, please visit us at www.fltrawberryfestival.com. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram for updates and pictures of festival fun. You can also receive direct reminders and information by subscribing on our website to our “Berry Latest” emails.

Our staff is orking diligently to ensure a successful festival, but the help and support from our community is paramount. We are truly grateful for every one of our nearly 2,500 volunteers and for the warm, welcoming spirit they show to our visitors. If you have never volunteered at the festival, I encourage you to do so. It’s not too late to sign up, and it’s much more fun than it is work! In addition, I would like to thank our board members, sponsors, committee members, community stakeholders and every one of our attendees. Each of you have a hand in making our festival “#1 for FUN!” and I can’t wait to see you there!

Paul Davis President, Florida Strawberry Festival®

AG SHOW SCHEDULE

MARCH 3-6

Mosaic Poultry & Rabbit Shows, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

MARCH 3-13

Youth Plant Show, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

THURSDAY, MARCH 3

Mosaic Youth Swine Show, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, MARCH 4

Dairy Contestent Judging, 1 p.m.

Mosaic Youth Swine Sale, 7 p.m.

SATURDAY, MARCH 5

Dairy Show Showmanship, 10:30 a.m.

Dairy Show, 1 p.m.

SUNDAY, MARCH 6

Adult Dairy Showmanship, 11 a.m.

Pee Wee Dairy Showmanship, 11:30 a.m.

Dairy Costume Ball, 12:30 p.m.

Youth Plant Sale, 2 p.m.

MONDAY, MARCH 7

Lamb Jumping Contest, 3 p.m.

Lamb Costume Contest, 7 p.m.

TUESDAY, MARCH 8

Lamb Showmanship, 3 p.m.

Lamb Show, 5 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 9

Mosaic Youth Steer Show, 6 p.m.

THURSDAY, MARCH 10

Mosaic Youth Steer Showmanship, 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, MARCH 11

Beef Breed Showmanship, 6 p.m.

SATURDAY, MARCH 12

Mosaic Youth Livestock Judging, 10 a.m.

Mosaic Youth Steer Sale, 7 p.m.

SUNDAY, MARCH 13

Beef Breed Show, 11 a.m.

FESTIVAL MAP

Remember: No matter where you park your car, take note of your spot with photos and notes to help you find it laer and reduce your chances of getting lost.

Plant City Police Department will not easily be able to help you find our car if you’ve lost track of where you parked it. If it was stolen, that’s a different story.

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

The 13th Annual Stingray Chevrolet New Vehicle Raffle is jt around the corner.

Once again Stingray Chevrolet is offering a brand-new Corvette for a raffle during the022 Florida Strawberry Festival.

The sports car is valued at $73,675 and will be given away on the last day of the festival, Sunday, March 13 at 5 p.m.

It will be equipped with a 490 horsepower 6.2LV8 engine, an 8-speed dualclutch transmission, rear park assist, an HD rear vision camera, and more.

“Susan and I are so excited to kick off the 3th Annual Stingray Chevrolet New Vehicle Raffle,” said Stingray Chevrolet owner Steve Hurley. “This year we are once again taking the raffleo a whole new level by donating a brand new 2022 Chevrolet Corvette convertible. The new metallic color is the perfect shade of red to honor the

Florida Strawberry Festival theme.”

Tickets are $5 each and can be purchased at the Stingray Chevrolet dealership until Friday, March 11 at 6 p.m. The dealership is located at 2002 N. Frontage Rd., in Plant City.

They can also be purchased online at www.StingrayChevroletRaffle.com until 3 p.m. on Friday, March 11.

They will be available at the Stingray Chevrolet’s vehicle display on the festival grounds during the 11-day event until 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 13. At last year’s festival, the Corvette raffleaised $334,000.

Proceeds will go toward Unity in the Community – a Plant City based nonprofit organization that contributes to local youth organizations and other groups who provide assistance to underprivileged families. Stingray Chevrolet has raised over $2.2 million dollars for Unity in the Community since they began the annual vehicle giveaway nearly 13 years ago.

The keys to a shiny, red 2022 Corvette is ready to be handed off o its lucky owner on Sunday, March 13.

NEW ENTERTAINMENT MAKES ITS WAY TO THIS YEAR’S FESTIVAL

Not only will the festival see a return to their beloved headline acts, there will also be a number of new and exciting bands in attendance for everyone to enjoy.

TAYLOR JENKINS STAFF WRITER

With the much-anticipated return of headline entertainment in 2022, it’s an extremely exciting time for music lovers as the Florida Strawberry Festival rolls around this year.

With headlining acts that will range from country artists both young and old, classic rock legends and some of the biggest stars in hip hop and R&B history, the festival’s concert series will get plenty of attention. But outside of those star-studded performances gracing the Wish Farms Soundstage, the festival will feature several artists across the grounds that are free for all in attendance to enjoy.

The following list features all of the new acts that will be making their debut at the Florida Strawberry Festival and where to find them. If some of them sound familiar, that’s probably because they are, with all performers taking the stage at different venues throughout the state, the country or right here in town at Krazy Kup!

KIRSTIE KRAUS

Kirstie Kraus carries her thirst in her songwriting, live shows and everyday connections with other kindred spirits. The result is a perfect blend of country, funk, blues and rock because with Kirstie, there are no bounds! International Song of the Year winner Kirstie Kraus will take to the Publix Showcase Tent stage at 6 p.m. on Monday, March 7.

Kirstie Kraus. Photo courtesy of the Florida Strawberry Festival

BRANSON MISSOURI’S THE DOUG GABRIEL FAMILY SHOW

Doug started singing at the age of two and began using his God-given talent professionally at the age of twelve. He has toured and opened for many stars like Marie Osmond, Roy Clark, Tony Orlando, Tanya Tucker, Bobby Vinton, Mel Tillis, The Gatlins, Moe Bandy, Ronnie McDowell and many more. His effortless talent,

intense energy and showstopping performances will keep you coming back every time! The Doug Gabriel Family Show will be performing in the Publix Showcase Tent daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. with no 11 a.m. show on March 6 or 3 p.m. show on March 13.

JESSICA LYNN WITTY FEATURING CHRIS JONES

Her award winning single “Catch Me If You Can” was Jessica’s first album recorded in 2020 in Nashville, Tennessee. Shortly after that, Jessica amped up the rock and gospel influences on her latest Nashville Recording “Warning Label”

once again teaming up with Beaird Music Group. Now collaborating with powerhouse Chris Jones, Jessica has a fresh, contemporary take on country music with female power at the forefront! Jessica Lynn Witty and Chris Jones will be performing in the Entenmann’s Strawberry Tent daily at noon, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Operating out of Sarasota, Florida, Brake Fail is an eclectic group of performers who know how to put on a show! Executive Producers, Jeff Adams, Loren Berry and Jody Luell, along with band members, Patrick

Walsh, Paul Champagne, Chris Durso, Terry Fritts and “The Bracketts” on background vocals, make up the melodic rock sensation of Brake Fail. Brake Fail will be performing in the Publix Showcase Tent on Saturday, March 5 at 6 p.m.

Branson Missouri’s The Doug Gabriel Family Show. Photo courtesy of the Florida Strawberry Festival

Jessica Lynn Witty Featuring Chris Jones. Photo courtesy of the Florida Strawberry Festival

BRAKE FAIL

Brake Fail. Photo courtesy of the Florida Strawberry Festival

STRAWBERRY QUEEN’S EXHIBIT BRINGS THE PAGEANT’S HISTORY TO LIFE.

The exhibit allows visitors to take a journey through the history of Plant City’s Strawberry Queens and their court.

TAYLOR JENKINS STAFF WRITER

As you step through the metal doors of Neighborhood Village at the Florida Strawberry Festival grounds, the first thing you’ll see is a flowing gown illuminated by the glow of a spotlight, encased in glass and sitting below photos of the 2022 Strawberry Festival Queen Kenley Connell and her court.

The gown not only welcomes you to Neighborhood Village and all of the exhibits that reside there throughout the 11-day festival, but stands as a representative image of the annual Strawberry Queen’s exhibit. The exhibit, put together each year by sisters Marsha Passmore and Dodie White, features countless photos and memories that highlight every individual Strawberry Queen – and their court – in the pageant’s history, dating back to 1930.

Connell is a junior at Plant City High school, also a member of the school’s tennis team, track team, FFA, Interact Club and the National Honor Society.

“In 1952 my great-grandma was actually on the queen’s court,” Connell said. “But I’m the first one in my family to be a queen so it’s a huge honor for me and my family. It’s a tradition in my family to do this pageant, so to be the first queen is such an honor and to see how proud my family is means so much more.”

Alongside Connell, Madison Davis was named First Maid with Tamia Williams, Chloe Hopper and Bailey Blanton rounding out the queen’s court.

On the opposite side of Connell’s display is a case that shines a light on this year’s featured queen, Kayla Drawdy. Each year the featured queen display honors one former queen, a glimpse into the past that looks to also reflect the character of the woman that wore the crown.

“Kayla is one of the queens that was born here, has lived here her whole life and still stays extremely involved in Plant City,” Passmore said. “She’s on so many boards and committees and she truly has a servant’s heart in the fact that she has served Plant City for so many years and continues to… And another thing about Kayla, what you see is exactly what you get. She is one of the kindest, sweetest, most beautiful young ladies that you will ever see but there’s no front there. When you’re in the same room, you’re just drawn to her because that’s just the spirit she has. She draws you to her because she’s just so kind.”

After serving as queen, Drawdy spent five years as a cheerleader for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, a part of her life that is prominently highlighted in the featured exhibit.

“That was an important part of her life,” White said. “She thoroughly enjoyed working with the Buccaneers and it was huge to her. So when we asked her to bring us things that meant a lot

to her in her life since she was the Strawberry Queen, that’s what she chose to highlight. She loved the fact that she made so many connections and so many friends and that it was a huge part of her life, so she wanted us to display that and we hope that we dis

played it proudly.”

Passmore and White mentioned that when choosing this year’s featured queen, Drawdy was an easy choice to fit the festival’s theme of “#1 For Fun” due to her fun and high-spirited personality.

On Monday night, Drawdy, Connell, each member of this year’s court and their families gathered in Neighborhood Village for the unveiling of the exhibit, becoming the first group to witness this year’s display.

“It was an awesome experience and was definitely a flashback to 20 years ago when I was queen,” Drawdy said. “It was an amazing experience so I look forward to this year and the festival and spending time with the girls… Marsha and Dodie put a lot of time and effort into this, they make it beautiful every year and they make it so that every queen is accounted for and that there’s pictures of everybody throughout the years. I think it’s wonderful.”

The Strawberry Festival has been a passion for the sisters for over 40 years, where they first served as tram captains for several years before transitioning to the festival’s ambassador program, working in the Business and Professional Women’s Club booth and eventually spending the past eight years bringing the Strawberry Queen’s exhibit to life.

“This exhibit is a labor of love for us,” White said. “When we were asked to do it eight years ago, we thought about it for a few minutes but said yes. We love that there is so much history here and we wanted to try and expand on what was already here.”

And no matter how many years they put together the exhibit, they will both tell you that they never never get tired of doing it, that they only love it more each time.

On the back wall of the exhibit, lined with lace and red carpet, there is an ever-growing collection of photos that displays a more personal side of the queens and their courts, aimed at exemplifying each year’s festival theme. As you take a closer look, the display will take you on a journey through the years that countless queens and courts have spent as representatives of Plant City and all of the fun that comes with it.

You can experience the Strawberry Queen’s exhibit for yourself in Neighborhood Village at any time throughout the festival.

A LARGER LIFE Starts WITH A RIGHTSIZE !

To learn more about the perfect fit and SAVE, call 863-547-1066 before our April 1 price adjustment!

A wonderful thing happens when you choose a rightsized apartment home at The Estates: Life gets bigger and better than ever. It’s because you’re not just trading the hassles of homeownership for a maintenance-free home and more freedom; you’re putting yourself in a senior living community brimming with activities, new friendships and an overall lifestyle where each day offers spirit-swelling fulfillment.

And if there ever comes a day when you need long-term care, you’ll have that too, provided right here by people you’ll already know.

Magnolia Magnolia

Bill and Phy

Two Bedrooms | Two Bathrooms

Why you’ll love it: The Magnolia puts you in our contemporary “M” building, which is its own hub of activity.

• Private fitness center, party room, covered parking and a patio with grills for cookouts

“The Estates is different than other communities. You get so much more out of life – all the activities, programs and possibilities. I would never think about leaving!” – Phyllis G., resident

Cypress Cypress

Two Bedrooms | Two Bathrooms

Dual walk-in closets in all models

Why you’ll love it: Choosing the Cypress surrounds you with all the amenities and dining venues of our main building. You can easily walk to the bistro, take a wellness class or grab coffee with a friend. It’s all under one roof.

• Fitness center, wellness center, dining venues and easy access to the health center

“We decided it was time to free ourselves from homeownership and the headaches that come with it. The Cypress is perfect. We got to pick everything in our apartment home. We chose the color, backsplash, cabinets and flooring, and even had a new wall installed.” – Richard and Carolyn B., residents

Our available floor plans are among the most popular at The Estates. Call 863-547-1066 today to schedule your tour and find the perfect floor plan for you!

NEW FOODS

APPLE FRY SUNDAE

It’s the same sweet apple fries that you’ve come to love, but with a twist! In the new Apple Fry Sunday, you’ll get Crisp Granny Smith apple fries layered with vanilla ice cream and strawberry compote, then topped with fresh strawberries and whipped cream. It’s sure to taste as good as it looks. Located at Apple Fries on West Independent.

FRIED MAC & CHEESE BALLS

The Fried Mac & Cheese Balls from Seasoned Greens is a classic comfort food that everyone will enjoy. Crunchy on the outside with creamy macaroni and cheese on the inside, these delicious snacks are deep-fried until golden brown. Located at Seasoned Greens

APPLEWOOD JACK FRUIT SANDWICH,

This new sandwich will fool any meat-lover! This year, Seasoned Greens brings their perfect vegan substitute for pulled pork with their Applewood BBQ jackfruit sandwiches. Located at Seasoned Greens near the GT Grandstand Entrance.

BERRY DOG

Try Florida’s classic strawberries in a whole new way this year with the Berry Dog, a strawberry slaw dog that features an all-beef hotdog topped with strawberry infused slaw for the perfect mix

of salty and sweet. Located at George’s Fun Food near Edwards Street, west of the Parke Exhibit Building.

BUFFALO CAULIFLOWER MACARONI & CHEESE CRUNCH WRAP

Seasoned Greens will provide yet another vegan-friendly food option with their Buffalo Cauliflwer Macaroni & Cheese Crunch Wrap, a perfect blend of carbs, veggies and buffalo goodness. Located at Seasoned Greens near the GT Grandstand Entrance.

COTTON CANDY, STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE, CHOCOLATE

STRAWBERRY FUDGE, BROWNIES, CAKE POPS & CUPCAKES

Follow me to Sweet Treat Lane! This exhibit offers a large assortment of homemade fudge, cake pops, cupcakes, brownies and much more. Fudge varieties include: cotton candy, strawberry shortcake, chocolate strawberry, strawberry cheesecake, strawberry and chocolate. Located at Sweet Treat Lane in the Parke Exhibit Building.

CREAMY LEMONADE

Find your lemonade fix with the perfect mix of freshly squeezed lemons and sugar that will make your lips pucker. This cool, Creamy Lemonade will also be available in strawberry. Located on the east side of the TECO Expo Hall, west of the Milton E. Hull Building and south of the Entenmann’s Strawberry Tent.

HOLY MACARONI

Holy Macaroni will provide a gourmet macaroni and cheese experience, made to order with your choice of pasta, a threecheese blend and an assortment of veggies, meats or seafood for you to pick and choose for your perfect plate. For those who just can’t decide what to build, Holy Macaroni also has a list of awardwinning combinations to choose from. Located on Edwards Street.

STRAWBERRY SOUTHERN COMFORT SUNDAE

The Strawberry Southern Comfort Sundae will start with a homemade sweet potato flvored ice cream, topped with torched marshmallows, waffle pies, brown sugar and Applewood smoked candied bacon. The delicious dessert is then drizzled with maple syrup, garnished with sliced Plant City strawberries and finished ff with jut a piece of Cayenne pepper. Located at Polar Bear Ice Cream on East Independent near Neighborhood Village.

STRAWBERRY KEY LIME FUNNEL CAKE

This Strawberry Key Lime Funnel Cake is sure to be unlike any you’ve had before, Made with a flvorful strawberry key lime funnel cake batter, the Strawberry Key Lime Funnel Cake is

one for the books! Deep-fried till a bright strawberry red, lightly dusted with powdered sugar, layered with fresh sliced Florida strawberries and topped with a tart homemade key lime glaze. Located at Best Around Concessions near Candyland Warehouse north of the Entenmann’s Tent.

STRAWBERRY PINA COLADA SMOOTHIE

Beat the heat with this refreshing tropical island-tasting smoothie. The Strawberry Pina Colada Smoothie features a blend of strawberries, pineapples, cream of coconut and ice, then topped with generous slices of pineapple and strawberries. Located at the Cinnamon Saloon near the south side of the Parke Exhibit Building.

PULLED PORK MAC & CHEESE

With so many options to choose from, you can get the best of both worlds with this new dish. A mound of homemade macaroni and cheese, piled high with a dollop of slow-roasted pulled pork and drizzled with a sweet BBQ sauce to top it off. Yum! Located at Piggy Palace southwest of the Arthur Boring Building.

Apple fries are one of many new strawberry-related foods coming to this year’s Festival. Photos courtesy of the Florida Strawberry Festival.

Great health care is closer than you think.

South Florida Baptist Hospital is more than just a small community hospital. We’ve got a wide array of specialty care and surgical services that you don’t have to travel far to get. Our surgeons are experts in minimally invasive robotic surgical procedures that provide lots of benefits, including shorter hospital stays, decreased blood loss and smaller incisions that reduce the risk of infection. Plus, faster recovery times that mean you can get back to your normal activities sooner. You’ll find comprehensive orthopedic care—whether you’re an athlete who needs sports medicine services or you’re someone who needs a total joint replacement. Our all-inclusive gynecology program offers high-quality care to the women and mothers in our community with a variety of women’s care services. We’ve even been designated as a Center of Excellence for our weight loss surgery program, meeting nationally recognized standards and providing outstanding care to our patients. And all of this extraordinary care exists right here in Plant City. Learn more: SouthFloridaBaptistSurgery.org

NEW IN TOWN?

Don’t come to Plant City often? Don’t worry — there are plenty of things for you to see and do when you’re not at the festival.

The Florida Strawberry Festival is without a doubt, the main attraction that brings people from around the country to Plant City.

However, the whole town is rich with history and culture, offering entertainment, eateries, and educational sites.

For those who are curious about venturing around Plant City outside of the festival, here are some great spots to visit.

HISTORY

Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum

Plant City isn’t only known for strawberries, but its long history with railroads. The Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum is a signifiant landmark that is located by railroad tracks that were used to bring resources into town.

It consists of the Plant City Union Depot, a viewing platform, railroad memorabilia, and a caboose.

Located at 102 N. Palmer St., the museum is open every Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 4 p.m.

For additional information call 813.719.6989 or visit WillafordRailroadMuseum.com.

Bing Rooming House Museum

Once a resting place for African Americans visiting from out of town, the Bing Rooming House Museum now exhibits history through photography, videos, and sports memorabilia.

Located at 205 S. Allen St., the museum is open on Mondays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

To schedule a tour throughout the week or weekend, call 863-398-2059.

For additional information, call 813-7576760, email BingHouseMuseum@gmail. com, or visit PlantCityBingHouse.com.

Courier Field and Veterans’ Monument

For a patriotic site that honors our men and women in uniform, the Courier Field and Veterans’ Monument park is the spot.

The open field has ommemorative plaques, a large monument, a pavilion and bricks engraved with the names of veterans laid along the foundation of the grounds.

Courier Field is located at 703 N. Wheeler St.

For more information, call the Plant City Parks and Recreation Department at 813659-4255.

Plant City Photo Archives and History Center

The Plant City Photo Archives and History Center goes down the history of the town through photography and documen-

tations. It’s a great way to take a history course of Plant City without ever leaving the building. Located at 106 S. Evers St., the History Center is open every Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

For more information, call the history center at 813-754-1578 or visit PlantCityPhotoArchives.org.

OUTDOOR FUN

McIntosh Preserve

The McIntosh Preserve is over 360 acres of nature to explore with walking trails that span 2.2 miles through the property, educational signage, and an observation tower to take in a breathtaking view of the preserve.

Located at 775 E. Knights Griffind., McIntosh Preserve is open during daylight hours. It’s best to come handy with water and your phone or camera on this adventure. For more information, call the Plant City Parks and Recreation Department at 813-659-4255.

Its hours of operation are Monday to Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center

For those who want to stay physically active while having fun, the Sadye Gibbs Martin Community Center is for you. Basketball, volleyball, and pickleball courts are available Mondays to Fridays from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Xtreme Hip-Hop Step and Burn cardio classes are on Mondays and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

The DJ Ken Miller Morning Dance event on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon. The Line Dance classes for beginners are on Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. and advanced classes are on Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. ZUMBA classes are on Wednesdays at 6 p.m.

The community center is located at 302 S. Maryland Ave. For more information, call 813-659-4253 or visit www.PlantCityGov. com/ParksRec.

Dr. Hal and Lynn Brewer Park

The Dr. Hal and Lynn Brewer Park is a great spot to visit for more outdoor activities.

The park includes a paved trail that wraps around the pond that features a fountain, a pavilion, benches, bike racks, trail lighting and an outdoor fitnss system.

The park is located at 1491 Hunter St. For more information, call the Plant City Parks and Recreation Department at 813659-4255.

The Mercantile

To find vinage accessories, art, handcrafted goods, jewelry, and furniture, there’s always The Mercantile in downtown Plant City. Vendors bring in various items that are great for home décor or to just liven any atmosphere. Located at 208 S. Collins St., The Mercantile is open every Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, call 813-659-1600 or visit www.TheMercantilePC.com.

FOOD/DRINKS

Johnson’s Barbecue/Fred’s Market Restaurant

If you’re in the mood for down home barbecue or southern comfort food, you’d be hard-pressed to find a beter option than Johnson’s or Fred’s. Located side-byside at 1401 and 1407 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Johnson’s is your standard barbecue joint with pit-smoked meat, burgers, wings and classic southern sides, while Fred’s offers a farmhouse feel with all manner of southern homestyle cooking, served buffet style.

Krazy Kup

Krazy Kup offers one of the more fun coffee experiences you’ll find with unique decor, baked good, snacks, wraps and espresso drinks all wrapped up in this cool hangout spot. In the evenings, Krazy Kup also offers a number of entertainment options in their upstairs loft, ranging from live musical performances, Bluegrass nights, open mic nights and retro movie showings. Whether you’re looking for some light food, a place to meet with friends, a fun evening in downtown Plant City or just a good cup of coffee, Krazy Cup is the place for you.

Located at 101 E. J. Arden Mays Blvd., Krazy Kup is open from 7:33 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 7:33 a.m. to 8:33 p.m. on Fridays and 8:33 a.m. to 8:33 p.m. on Saturdays. You can check out their event schedule at www. krazykup.com.

Norma’s

Norma’s is your one-stop shop for some of the best Spanish food in Plant City. Not only do they offer sandwiches, tacos, salads, soups, bowls and traditional sides,

but they’re also home to one of the best Cuban sandwiches in the area and offers taco specials each Tuesday from 11 a.m. to close. Located in the heart of downtown Plant City at 120 N. Collins St., Norma’s is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Monday through Saturday.

Root’s Tap Room & Wine Bar

Roots Tap Room is a low-key bar in downtown Plant City that offers something on tap for everyone. With several wine options and eight rotating drafts ranging from a light pilsner to an imperial stout, Roots strives to always have a beer available for you, no matter your taste. Located at 101 S. Evers St., you can check their ever-changing list of beers available on tap at www.rootsofplantcity. com.

Keel Farms

Stop by Keel Farms while you’re in town for a chance to tour the grounds, taste their award-winning wines, ciders and beers, hand pick your own bushels of strawberries from their 25-acre farm and grab a bite from their handcrafted menu of upscale pub style food.

For more information on Keel Farms, Keel & Curley Winery or to make a reservation for dinner, visit www.keelfarms.com.

NEW FESTIVAL VENDORS

Here is the full list of new vendors that will be in attendance at this year’s Florida Strawberry Festival.

As you stroll through the gates of the Florida Strawberry Festival this year, many will see and smell and taste all of the familiar things that have made the festival a long-time staple of each spring.

But with each new year brings new experiences to the festival grounds, from wacky and delicious new foods to try, exciting new entertainment to see and new vendors to explore.

Below is a list of all the new vendors that will be in attendance at this year’s Florida Strawberry Festival and the goodies that they will provide.

AKOYA PICK-A-PEARL

Discover nature’s treasure from the sea at Akoya Pick-APearl booth. This exhibit offers a very unique experience for those who enjoy the beauty of pearls and love a surprise! Akoya PickA- Pearl imports Akoya oysters from family-owned pearl farms of the Orient. Akoya Pick-A-Pearl is located in the TECO Expo Hall located north of the Parke Exhibit Building.

AMERICAN PATRIOT

Staying safe can sometimes mean you need quick access to your weapon. With American

Patriot superior gun magnet, you can mount your gun vertically, horizontally or upside down for low-profilestorage. American Patriot is located in the Entenmann’s Strawberry Tent north of the Milton E. Hull Building.

ANNIE’S POOCH POPS

Annie’s Pooch Pops has been hand-making healthy Pooch Pops for decades. These all-natural gourmet pet treats are made in the U.S.A. with 100% human grade ingredients of dehydrated beef. Annie’s Pooch Pops is located in the Parke Exhibit Building south of the TECO Expo Hall.

BETHLEHEM OLIVE WOOD COMPANY

Bethlehem Olive Wood Company creates hand-crafted crosses, nativities, plaques, ornaments, rosaries, bracelets, cross pendants and spiritual figurins. Bethlehem Olive Wood Company is located in the Parke Exhibit Building south of the TECO Expo Hall.

CARAMEL KITCHEN

Caramel Kitchen handcrafts all natural caramel sauces in a variety of flvors including salted, bourbon, chocolate, cinnamon

vanilla, espresso, chipotle and more. Their caramel sauces are free of corn syrup, gluten, nuts and preservatives. Caramel Kitchen is located in the Arthur Boring building west of the Parke Exhibit Building.

C.I.N. SCARVES AND SLIDES

C.I.N. Scarves and Slides wraps and clips come from re-purposed combinations of vintage jewelry and buttons. C.I.N. Scarves and Slides is located in the TECO Expo Hall north of the Parke Exhibit building.

DMK NATURALS

Reusable beeswax food wraps made with 100% cotton fiber coated with a blend of pure beeswax, natural pine resin and organic jojoba oil, DMK Naturals is an eco-friendly healthy alternative to plastic wrap and bags. DMK Naturals is located in the North Exhibit Tent north of the Wish Farms Soundstage.

DOUGHMAKERS KITCHEN

Homemakers love and professionals praise Doughmakers Kitchen gourmet bakeware! Doughmakers Kitchen bakeware is strong, sturdy, easy to clean and affordable. Located in the

North Exhibit Tent north of the Wish Farms Soundstage.

FOR PEDRO’S SAKE

Spice things up with For Pedro’s Sake and their candied jalapeños! This exhibit sells a wide variety of homemade flvored candied jalapeños. They even carry a strawberry chipotle salsa! You can find or Pedro’s Sake exhibit in the Parke Exhibit Building south of the TECO Expo Hall.

GRAB-N-GO

Grab-N-Go concessions specializes in BBQ ribs, pork chop sandwiches and gourmet baked potatoes. Grab-N-Go is located on East Independent near Neighborhood Village.

MYSTICAL MAGICAL THINGS

With a very unique product line up, Mystical Magical Things offers a large variety of glittery lanterns, angel and cardinal figurins, garden gnomes and so much more. You can find Mstical Magical Things display located in the Arthur Boring Building west of the Parke Exhibit Building.

SEW A SEED

Sew A Seed offers a variety of handmade phone and tablet

pillows, framed artwork, blankets and so much more. Sew A Seed is located in the Entenmann’s Strawberry Tent west of the Milton E. Hull Building.

THE ALPACA STORE

You’ll find all thins alpaca at this exhibit! Wool plushies, keychains, socks, friendship bracelets, finer puppets, sweaters, hats and home décor. They’ve got it all! The Alpaca Store is located in the Stadium Exhibit Hall north of the Parke Exhibit Building.

THE FRAGRANT POMANDER

Handmade pottery, bottles and perfumes- The Fragrant Pomander has something for everyone! Located near the TECO Expo Hall.

YE OLDE TOFFEE SHOPPE

Ye Olde Toffee Shoppe has oldfashioned candies and English toffees that will melt in your mouth! Offering a large selection of toffees to choose from, we’re sure Ye Olde Toffee Shoppe has something sweet for you! Ye Olde Toffee Shoppe booth is located in the Arthur Boring Building west of the Parke Exhibit Building.

THE ‘BERRY’ BEST STRAWBERRY RECIPES

If the Florida Strawberry Festival doesn’t fill your appetite for strawberries, here are some fun recipes for you to try at home.

With the Florida Strawberry Festival off and running and trawberry season here, there’s no better time to get the best, most flvorful strawberries that Florida has to offer.

The Festival is sure to provide more than its fair share of delicious and strawberrythemed food, ranging from sweet to savory, but sometimes that isn’t enough and you have to take matters into your own hands, and your own kitchen.

Nobody knows strawberries like Sue Harrell of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association. “Strawberry Sue” is not only the face and voice of the FSGA, she’s also an expert at whipping up a number of strawberry-based dishes. There are dozens of recipes to try out for yourself online, but here are some of our favorites from Strawberry Sue’s collection.

STRAWBERRY BALSAMIC BRIE GRILLED CHEESE

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of strawberries, quartered

• 6-8 ounces of Brie cheese

• 3 tablespoons of basil, chopped or torn into small pieces

• 4 slices of sourdough bread

• 3 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar

• 3 tablespoons of honey

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

2. In a bowl, gently mix together with a spoon the honey and balsamic vinegar.

3. Fold quartered strawberries into the balsamic honey mixture.

4. Spread strawberries on a sheet pan.

5. Bake for 20-25 minutes until berries are soft but not “mushey”.

6. Warm skillet or frying pan on medium heat.

7. Butter outside of each slice of bread.

8. Place brie slices on one side of each sandwich followed by a spoonful of the balsamic berry mixture and a sprinkle of basil.

9. Top each sandwich with a slice of buttered bread (butter goes on the outside of the slice).

10. Cook each sandwich 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cheese is melted.

CHICKEN FAJITAS WITH STRAWBERRYJALAPENO SALSA

Ingredients:

Strawberry Salsa

• 1 1/2 cup Florida strawberries, chopped small

• 1 jalapeno pepper, seeds removed and chopped

• 1/2 red onion, diced

• 1/4 cup cilantro, roughly chopped

• 1 lime, juiced

• salt and pepper to taste

Chicken Fajitas

• 1 lb chicken breast

• 1 tbsp cooking oil of choice (evoo, spray, etc)

• 1 tbsp ground cumin

Photos courtesy of FloridaStrawberry.org

• 1 lime, juiced

• Kosher salt and pepper, to taste

• tortillas of choice

• avocado, optional

• goat cheese, optional

Method:

1. To make the strawberry salsa, mix all ingredients well and allow to chill at minimum 1 hour.

2. For the Chicken Fajitas – to a bowl, add chicken, oil, lime juice, cumin, salt and pepper. Mix well to coat chicken. Allow to marinate 30 minutes.

3. Heat non-stick skillet to medium heat. Grill chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes, and fli. If chicken resists, side is not done. Once done, flip and grill other side until don. Allow to cool.

4. Once cooled, slice chicken into strips and add to tortillas. Top with salsa, avocado, and goat cheese.

STRAWBERRY OATMEAL BARS

Ingredients:

For the filling

• 1 quart Florida strawberries, washed and hulled

• cup (142 grams) sugar

• 1½ tablespoons (12 grams) cornstarch

• 1 tablespoon (12 grams) lemon juice

For the bars:

• 1 cup (143 grams) all purpose flou

• cup (38 grams) oat flou

• cup (28 grams) old fashioned oats

• ½ teaspoon (4 grams) salt

• 12 tablespoons (172 grams) unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup (211 grams) sugar

• ½ teaspoon (2 grams) vanilla extract

• 1 egg

• confectioners sugar for dusting

Instructions

For the filling

1. Place the strawberries in a medium saucepan. Mash with your hands or a masher and add 2/3 cup sugar, cornstarch and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the mixture is thick and translucent, stirring constantly. Cool completely.

For the bars:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°. Line an 8″ x 8″ baking pan with parchment paper and set aside.

2. Whisk together the all purpose flou, oat flou, oats and salt. Set aside.

3. Beat the butter, sugar and vanilla in a large mixing bowl until light and fluy, about three minutes. Add the egg.

4. Blend in the dry ingredients.

5. Spread half of the dough onto the bottom of the parchment lined baking pan. Top this with the cooled strawberry filling Drop the remaining dough by the spoonfuls over the strawberry filling The entire top will not be covered.

6. Bake at 350° for 45-50 minutes. Cool in the pan.

7. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

8. Lift the parchment paper out of the pan and transfer it to a cutting board. Cut into 16 bars.

Dust with confectioners sugar.

SIMPLY SWEET FLORIDA STRAWBERRY PIE

• Chilled pie dough for one 9-inch pie

• 5 cups of quartered and hulled strawberries, divided

• 3/4 cup sugar

• 1/4 cup cornstarch

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/4 teaspoon almond extract

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/8 teaspoon salt

• Whipped cream

Pie crust

Heat oven to 425°F. Place a baking sheet on a middle oven rack.

Roll out pie dough to fit pie dish. Press dough down into dish so that it lines the bottom and sides. Trim dough so that about ½ inch hangs over edge of dish. Crimp edges of dough around dish.

Pierce bottom of the crust with a fork (this prevent air pockets or bubbles from forming while baking). Place pie crust onto preheated baking sheet and reduce oven temperature to 400 degrees F. Bake 20 to 30 minutes or until the crust is golden. Remove from oven and cool.

Filling

Add 2 cups of strawberries to a small saucepan. Mash strawberries until chunky. Add sugar, corn starch, vanilla extract, almond extract, lemon juice and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until sugar dissolves and glaze has thickened; 3 to 5 minutes. Cool completely.

Combine remaining 3 cups of strawberries with cooled strawberry glaze. Stir until strawberries are well coated. Spoon strawberry filling ino cooled pie crust. Refrigerate pie at least 2 hours before cutting to allow filling o set. Top with whipped cream.

STRAWBERRY BEE’S KNEES COCKTAIL

Ingredients:

Cocktail

• 2 oz Gin (Use vodka if preferred)

• 4 ea Florida Strawberries

• 1 oz Strawberry Honey Syrup (see recipe below)

• 1 oz Fresh Lemon Juice

• Ice

• Strawberry or Lemon Twist

Garnish

Strawberry Honey Syrup

• 1/4 cup Strawberry Raw Honey (unflvored natural honey can be used)

• 1/4 cup Hot Water

Method:

Cocktail:

Prepare Strawberry Honey Syrup (see recipe below)

1. Place Florida Strawberries in cocktail shaker with strawberry honey syrup and muddle strawberries until juicy. You may let this mixture sit for a few minutes to extract more juice.

2. Add remaining ingredients in a cocktail shaker

3. Shake until chilled

4. Strain into a martini glass or if you want to serve it 1920’s style, use a coupe glass. If you want to go for rustic chic, serve it over ice in a mason jar. This is a cocktail you can dress up or down, and it will always be classy.

5. Garnish with a strawberry or a lemon twist

This recipe is easily adapted to your taste. Want it more tart? Add more lemon juice. Don’t want it as sweet? Just reduce the strawberry honey syrup.

Strawberry Honey Syrup:

1. Place ingredients in a jar and shake vigorously until honey is dissolved

2. Do not heat this mixture in a pot as you would when making a traditional simple syrup. Honey should not be heated.

3. 4 Store any unused syrup in the refrigerator

For more of Strawberry Sue’s signature recipes and more from other Florida chefs and home cooks, visit floridatrawberry.org/recipes.

Meet Strawberry Queen KENLEY CONNELL

Kenley Connell’s childhood dream finally became a reality as the 2021 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen McKenna Jordan crowned her, passing on the mantle.

She was named the 2022 Queen for the 87th Florida Strawberry Festival.

Connell took part in one of Plant City’s most beloved pageants on Saturday, Jan. 22. Madison Davis was named the first maid.

Bailey Blanton, Tamia Williams, and Chloe Hopper were chosen as the court members.

“It’s amazing!” Connell said. “I’m on cloud nine!”

In total, 24 young ladies took the spotlight and became the spectacle among the masses that filled the Florida Strawberry Festival fairgrounds. The dense crowd was not only a testament of love and support that Plant City has to offer, but also a sign that the town is returning to a sense of normalcy after two years of dealing with COVID-19.

For those who were not present at the pageant, there was an option of streaming it live through the Lions Club Facebook page.

“Since I was a little girl, I’ve been to the pageants,” Connell explained. “I saw the pictures on the walls around me. I remember these girls getting crowned, and I remember their faces, in that moment. To be on stage that night was amazing.”

However, she was already walking down the runway in fashion years before in the Junior Royalty pageant.

The daughter of Joel and Erika

Connell, she is a Plant City native and grew up around agriculture. Her father is a farmer and she became well acquainted with livestock and their needs.

At age 8, her father placed her in a pig drawing, in which she was the 18th number drawn. Jon Poppell of Poppell Insurance Inc. wanted to make sure she didn’t leave empty handed and purchased a small pig for her. While she didn’t consider the animal to be a pet, but livestock instead, she said she still formed a bond.

And at a young age she was already learning the importance of maintaining the well-being of her pig.

“This is a responsibility,” Connell said. “This is kind of like my job, feeding this animal twice a day and working with him. This project is going to lead me to bigger things in my life.”

She is currently in her junior year at Plant City High School and is a member of the Interact Club and the National Honor Society. Connell participates on the school tennis and track teams. She is also a member of FFA.

Students are exposed to nature and the lifestyle that comes along with being a farmer. FFA also opens the door to possible agricultural jobs, as well as many other occupations.

“When Mr. Jon Poppell bought me my very first pig,” Connell said, “I didn’t understand that this is going to send me to college one day.”

While she is still passionate about agriculture, she is contemplating another career path. She plans to attend a Florida university, obtaining a doctorate degree in psychology, with a minor in criminology.

The queen pageant had Connell and the 23 other contestants

What are you looking forward to at the festival?

It’s definiely just meeting the people. There are so many people who know our faces now. We’ve been all over social media for the past couple of days, but to meet those people individually and to shake their hand, and give them a hug. They’re my supporters too.

active on the runway, partaking in different segments of the show. They consisted of public speaking, casual wear and evening gown competitions and announcing Miss Congeniality.

Like the other girls who made it as the 10 semi-finalists, she had to answer one question: “The Strawberry Queen should have a servant’s heart. How would you demonstrate in serving the community, or while helping others?”

“I’m a firm believer that people always remember how you make them feel,” Connell responded.

She recounted how the gift from Poppell and her opportunity to continue her education at the collegiate level has humbled her Connell also stated that her love for the youth and agriculture motivates her to give back to Plant City.

Winning the Queen’s crown has begun her year on a high note.

And as the Florida Strawberry Festival is here, she, her first maid, and the three court members are gearing up for the attention they will receive.

“I’m most looking forward to spending 11 days with the beautiful ladies standing next to me,” Connell said.

What’s the reception been like that you’ve received from the public?

I have a big support system. I have lots of loving friends. They do like to annoy me. They call me ‘plant girl’ because I’m the strawberry queen. But just the loving people that have poured into this community, that have poured into the festival, and the pageant, their faces and how kind they are to people. They’ve been so kind to us.

Are there any trends that you embrace or that you want to see come back?

I love pant suites. I wore a yellow one in the pageant…I adore them. I also love mom jeans. So anything fashion, I love that.

What would you say is your favorite strawberry-related food or drink?

We have a lot of strawberry food. We grow a lot of strawberries at my house. My mom used to make the best strawberry jam. We would put it on our biscuits, and it would last all year long.

What are your favorite social media platforms?

Personally, I love VSCO. You can only love it and you can only repost it. You can’t comment, it’s just a picture, and you can only have a small caption. So you get to see the picture and I love pictures. I’m a big fan of taking pictures because it snaps a memory. It’s a snapshot of something you love doing and VSCO displays

that so well…and you can have a positive impact on your friends. You don’t get to comment anything negative.

If you could travel to one place, where would it be?

I would definiely travel back in time when my parent were kids, because my parents act like they were angels and they didn’t make any mistakes when they were younger. If I could go back to 1980 to 1995 to see how my parents really lived, that would be really cool.

What career path would you like to go down?

I would love to be a criminal psychiatrist. I’ve always loved criminal justice. When I was six, I wanted to be a police officer. When I was 10, I wanted to be a navy seal. As I’ve gotten older and I’ve done more research, I really like criminal psychiatry because I get to see after the fact and I get to see why they did what they did, and it’s to help them to have a hand to hold or a shoulder to lean on.

Who would you say is the most influential peson in your life?

When I was 11 years old, I had this lady named Ms. Jennifer come into my life. Ms. Jennifer is probably one of my best friends now. She’s the easiest person to talk to, but she also fighs a lot of her own battles. Just to watch her fight her wn battles, and to still be my shoulder to lean on, is something that I treasure from her. I hope I can become half that woman one day, where I can fight my own battles and to help somebody else as well.

What T.V. shows or movies would you recommend others to watch or binge on?

Definiely Criminal Minds or NCIS. I love those type of shows. They’re not reality so they’re just funny to watch.

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

MEET FIRST MAID MADISON DAVIS

What are you looking forward to at the festival?

I’m most excited for the concerts. Last year the concerts were cancelled, and I was so disappointed, simply because I am very musically inclined. I sing, I play the ukulele and the guitar …and have a good time. The concert was a way to do that at the festival with people that I love. This year, I’m more than exited to be able to sing and dance with my court with such fun, headline entertainment.

What’s the reception been like that you’ve received from the public?

When I got home, my phone was blowing up. I also have a huge support system and I’m so blessed for that. Honestly, it’s just the environment that is so different. It’s that energy that makes it so special.

Are there any trends that you embrace or that you want to see come back?

I am obsessed with mom jeans. The 90s fit f jeans is coming back and I’m so happy. I love anything that makes a comeback. It’s so good that it has to be around twice. I love anything like that.

What would you say is your favorite strawberry-related food or drink?

One of my favorite strawberry things that I’ve eaten, would have to be my mimmie’s [grandmother] copycat recipe of Parksdale cookies. I know that sounds so simple, but to take something so popular and so delicious and make it yourself, is so much fun. And not only that, they’re so good.

What are your favorite social media platforms?

My personal favorite social media platform would have to be Pinterest. It’s so nice to go on a social media platform and not worry about comments, and when you scroll through Pinterest, you see all these sort of ideas of inspiration and I love that, because I believe that imitation is the highest form of flatery because if you do something that somebody likes, that means you admire them. And I just like seeing so many different ideas come on one platform.

If you could travel to one place, where would it be?

One place I would definiely go, without a doubt, would be France. I took French [classes] three years in high school and I absolutely fell in love with the culture and the language. I’m working on becoming bilingual in French and English. I also did culinary all four years of high school, and I was the head baker in my culinary arts group. A lot of baking techniques, tons of them, originate from France, and I would love to see, and try, different desserts or different techniques.

What career path would you like to go down?

Right now I’m at Southeastern University. I’m a freshman. I’m

studying psychology with a minor in music. The reason why I want to do this – it’s a weird combination…but I want to do music therapy. I want to combine something that I’m passionate about, which is helping people, and combining something that I already know and love, which is music, teaching them how to play the guitar or how to play the ukulele.

Who would you say is the most influential peson in your life?

My role model would have to be my mimmie without a doubt, simply because she is everything I want to be when I get older. When I was a little girl, my parents actually divorced and my mom worked days, my dad worked nights. In was physically impossible for them to keep us sometimes. My mimmie would watch us 15 days out of a 25 to 30-day month of the year. This made me not only so much closer with her, but it gave me an appreciation, and to this day, she still works just as hard for me with everything. She is selflss, she is kind, and she is everything that I want to be when I get older.

What world issues would you change if you could?

If bad things couldn’t happen to people who are pure in heart and kind-hearted. I believe people who are kind-hearted and genuine should be lifted up and should be rewarded.

What T.V. shows or movies would you recommend others to watch or binge on?

For movies, definiely all the Spiderman movies. It is so fun to watch each Spiderman bring something different to the Marvel-Spiderman universe. I’m a huge nerd for all Marvel movies, especially Spiderman.

TAMIA WILLIAMS

What’s the reception been like that you’ve received from the public?

What are you looking forward to at the festival?

I’m most excited to interact with the senior citizens because I feel like they’re the ones who truly know the history of the Strawberry Festival. I think I can

learn a lot, and I love talking to senior citizens, hearing all their stories about when they were younger, and I think it would just be a really good experience and something I’ll never forget.

Honestly, my experience was really calm. I’m so involved in other things that once they were aware, they were still showering me with love and congratulations and supported me just like as they didn’t know.

Are there any trends that you embrace or that you want to see come back?

My favorite is boot-cut [jeans]. The 70s is making a comeback with not only jeans but also with hair. I love seeing more younger black girls wearing their real hair out and afros. Thrifting – before it used to be embarrassing to shop at Goodwill but now a lot of teenagers are going to Goodwill for fun. We’re like, ‘Okay, let’s go thrifting,’ and I really love that because you’re not getting into fast fashion. You’re saving the planet while also looking good. Also, monochrome looks, wearing one color. People use to not like that. They would be like, ‘Why are you wearing all red,’ but now it’s a look. I love that.

What would you say is your favorite strawberry-related food or drink?

My personal favorite is a strawberry cake, it is so good. It tastes like a strawberry cookie, but in a cake and it’s so moist. You have to get it homemade.

What are your favorite social media platforms?

Right now my favorite social media outlet is definiely TikTok. I love laughing and smiling and having a good time, and TikTok does that for me, while also keeping my

attention. It has such short videos, but you can also learn so much in those videos. I just love seeing everyone’s creativity because the ideas are original. It embraces you, it exposes you to so many different things. I’ve seen people build houses, cook food…and it’s all because of TikTok. I would have never known.

If you could travel to one place, where would it be?

I would go to Nigeria just because it is so rich in culture, and I love the dance styles that originate from there. I think a lot of people get misconstrued when they think about African dancing, but it’s so modern now and the talent that it takes, I want to learn it fist-hand.

What career path would you like to go down?

I will be attending FAMU [Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University] in the fall and majoring in business administration, more likely the marketing route. But I’m slowly transitioning into becoming an influener just because I love being around people and meeting knew people and making new connections. Right now, I’m looking at trendsetters and I want to be the trendsetter for somebody else. I just want to be that positive role model for everybody around, and I just love being involved in fashion [and] hair. That’s where I see my future going.

Who would you say is the most influential peson in your life?

The person I look up to most is my sister. We have an eight-year age difference, so when she was going into high school, I was just starting elementary school. My mom - she’s an administrator, and my dad – he’s a nurse. He would be

working nights half the time and my mom- she would sometimes have to work days because that’s just a part of her administrative duties. My sister would be left alone with me, she would have to watch me, so for the longest time until she graduated high school, she was my second mom. Being able to watch her go through her college lifestyle to now… has always inspired me. I’ve always thought that if my sister can do it, I can do it too.

What world issues would you change if you could?

I would definiely change the fact that vapes were created, just because so many teens now have become addicted to nicotine and I’ve currently witnessed friends who freak out just because they don’t have that tiny, little pot of nicotine. I don’t think they truly realize they’re destroying their body. This is what past generations were trying to prevent and I feel like it’s ten times worse. Kids are dying from lung cancer all because they can’t put nicotine down. I think it’s a shame because smoke shops – they don’t even ID, so they’re selling these devices to these kids and it’s ruining their lives.

What T.V. shows or movies would you recommend others to watch or binge on?

I would definiely recommend The Last Kingdom. It’s a totally different show. It has a historical but also a fictional aspect which features the Vikings. I love that. For movies, definiely Blended. Adam Sandler, hands down, one of the funniest actors alive.

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

What are you looking forward to at the festival?

Of course I’m excited for the food and trying all the delicious desserts that they have. I’m mainly looking forward to going around to all the arts and crafts vendors and seeing all the unique and wonderful creations that they have and all the hard work that they put in each and every project they do. I’ll never forget the time, me, my mom [and] my sister went to the festival when we were little and we saw these homemade leather bracelets, and we all immediately stopped, and we were like, ‘I have to get one,’ and we got our names engraved into them. I didn’t want to take that bracelet off – I man for anything.

What’s the reception been like that you’ve received from the public?

As soon as I walked into every class, my teachers were all immediately like, ‘congratulations,’ and I was like, ‘thank you.’ Everyone knew about it and my principal talked to me. It’s a different feeling when you know that people care about the community as much as you do and how much support goes into people and feeling welcome, and excited for everything.

Are there any trends that you embrace or that you want to see come back?

I love to go thrifting for old vintage clothes. It’s funny because anytime I put on an outfi…my mom will be like ‘You’re really going to wear that today’?” Old Levi jeans.

I love those so I hope those don’t go away. Just like accessorizing with a lot of jewelry and rings and necklaces, and earrings.

What would you say is your favorite strawberry-related food or drink?

When I was little, I would cut [strawberries] up and dump sugar on them. I also love at the festival, they let you pick which type of melted chocolate that you want to dip them into, so I always get milk chocolate and white chocolate.

What are your favorite social media platforms?

I did download Facebook…and just seeing what my grandparents post is hilarious. Anything and everything they’ll post. To me, only teenagers could only use social media. It’s so weird thinking about my parents and my grandparents posting stuff. Also, Pinterest, just getting art inspiration ideas because I love to draw and paint, and I get a lot of those from Pinterest.

If you could travel to one place, where would it be?

After college or maybe even during, I would love to travel the world in general. There’s not a place in particular. If I had to choose one though, I would probably say Bora Bora, just because I’ve seen pictures of it, and it looks beautiful. The water is just crystal clear, and it looks so relaxing.

What career path would you like to go down?

I knew I wanted to do [marine biology] when I was little. The dolphin was my favorite animal and still is even to this day. Having a love for the ocean and marine life ever

since I was a little girl. It actually started after I visited the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. I would love to work in a place like that where they take animals that are injured and they rehabilitate them and nourish them back to health, and then they send them back out into the ocean. Just doing something like that where it’s not taking animals that are happy in their environment and putting them into smaller tanks, it’s getting them back to their environment once they’re nourished back to health.

Who would you say is the most influential peson in your life?

The person I look up to would have to be my cousin McKenna. She is a year older than me, and she goes to UCF. Just everything that we’ve been through with our families, things that teenagers and kids our age shouldn’t have to go through, just seeing how strong she is, and independent and I just look up to her and admire her for that. Anytime I’m feeling something, the fist person I go to will always be her.

What world issues would you change if you could?

If I could change one thing, it would just be that people know how to manage their time with social media, people know how to manage their time with electronics, and everything that is advancing. It’s only going to advance even more in the future. Being able to sit back and realize you need to take in nature, you need to take in the moments you have with family and friends, you need to take in each and every day, and appreci-

What T.V. shows or movies would you recommend others to watch or binge on?

If I could recommend one show it would be Stranger Things. I started watching that a couple of years ago and it’s just crazy

because I’m growing up and all the characters are growing up and seeing them get older each and every season is crazy but it’s good for all ages…it has everything in it.

Entenmann's Strawberry Tent

MEET COURT MEMBER

BAILEY BLANTON

What are you looking forward to at the festival?

I’m mostly excited about being able to experience things behind the scenes, because going to the festival every year, I’m just a normal attendee. Every year you see things the festival wants you to see and as a court member, we’re able to go see things behind stage and see things behind the scenes and meet the vendors.

What’s the reception been like that you’ve received from the public?

Walking in school, you know you have tons of people wishing you congratulations and saying that ‘Oh you looked great you know, we’re so proud of you,’ and it’s so loving. My prinicipal and all my APs [advanced placement], and all my friends, they all congratulated me, and it just reminds me, being in this position about how much people love me and how much people support me, and how great Plant City is.

Are there any trends that you embrace or that you want to see come back?

My fashion’s all over the place. I don’t really pick one thing…but I only wear mom jeans because they’re so comfortable. Skinny jeans - they’re not the most comfortable jeans.

What would you say is your favorite strawberry-related food or drink?

Honestly, I like to keep it simple with my strawberries. I just dip my strawberries into powdered sugar.

What are your favorite social media platforms?

I actually like Facebook because my mom would have Facebook and I would see what she posted. So I actually decided to get Facebook so I could monitor what pictures she posts of me. Whenever I go on Facebook, and I see all of the comments of all of her friends and are so supportive. Every time I look through, they’re like, ‘Oh she’s so beautiful. She’s such an amazing girl,’ and it really boosts my confidene.

If you could travel to one place, where would it be?

I would actually go back to the Renaissance because I really do love art, I love painting and I love drawing. The Renaissance is just a cool time period to live in because it is the blossom of art and the blossom of culture. Being with experienced people, creating these murals and sculptures.

What career path would you like to go down?

I do know that I want to go to college and I want to get a degree in business administration, specifially finane, because having that degree can take me many different paths and open up doorways to many, many different jobs.

Who would you say is the most influential peson in your life?

The person who I look up to the most would have to be my mom. She’s definiely grown into being my best friend. I don’t think I can go a day without telling her every little thing that’s happened in my

ONLINE

day. She’s definiely the person who I confide in the mst. I look up to her because she has a full-time job, yet she still finds time o support me and my siblings. Whether it’s my little brother, and she’s sitting down and helping him with his math homework, or whether she’s taking me and my twin brother to our FFA competitions, or showing up to all of my volleyball matches, and even going to my pageant. She’s strong in her faith, she shows me what a woman of faith I want to be when I grow up.

What world issues would you change if you could?

I think a big problem today, especially in America with growing technology is cyber-bullying, especially through social media. People use social media as a way to harm other people’s lives. It only has a negative impact…especially on teenage girls. I have a best friend and she was cyber-bullied. She did not deserve to be treated the way she was online and so that is definiely one of the things I would love to change.

What T.V. shows or movies would you recommend others to watch or binge on?

One movie I recommend people to see if they want to cry is Steel Magnolias. I’ve never cried so much to a movie, and of course Dolly Parton is in it, so you have to watch it. The movie is really family oriented. It’s also based in a town pretty similar to Plant City. See more photos of the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen’s Scholarship Pageant at PlantCityObserver.com

File photos

BRIAN FERNANDES STAFF WRITER

MCKENNA JORDAN SAYS FAREWELL

Mckenna Jordan reigned as the Florida Strawberry Festival Queen in 2021.

When you ask our community what their favorite family tradition is, most will respond with, “The Strawberry Festival”. It’s the one time of year that everyone looks forward to. Even in the midst of a trying year, our small-town traditions continued. The Strawberry Festival is such a vital part of our community and the town that we call home. To be given the opportunity to represent and serve this town is an honor and a blessing. To hear my name called as the 2021 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen, was such an unbelievable moment. To this day, I am still in utter and complete shock to be given this opportunity.

My fist thank you goes out to the Plant City Lions Club. The court and I are so grateful for your generous scholarships that will help us to grow in our studies and education. More specifially, I would like to thank Ms. Gail and Mr. George. You two sure do make a fantastic team. You two made this experience so fun and so memorable. We cannot thank the two of you enough.

To the Florida Strawberry Festival President, who claims to also be a Former Queen, Mr. Paul Davis. Thank you so much for everything you have done for us this year. It is so clear what a kind and fun spirit you have in anything you do. Mr. Dub and Mrs. Pec, thank you for so many fun events and for the amazing food you cook. P.S.we look forward to cooking classes in the future. Uncle Timmy, you have the strongest and kindest heart. Thank you for being the best bodyguard and for always keeping us safe throughout this year.

To the Florida Strawberry Festival directors and their spouses, thank you for your love and support throughout this year. It was amazing getting to know you all. To our Strawberry moms, using the word “amazing” to

describe the two of you would be an understatement. Mrs. Lori, you’ve had our backs from day one. You take our side on anything from what clothes we want to wear to making sure we eat because Mrs. Donna tends to starve us. LOL. Your loving spirit makes it so easy to confide in ou. Mrs. Donna, you also have always had our backs and our best interest at heart. You are so understanding and have taught us so many things. Don’t let the bad cop label fool you guys, she is an amazing leader and role model. We are so lucky to be able to call you both our Strawberry moms.

To the four girls who have easily become my best friends, I love you guys with my entire heart. I could not be more grateful to have gone through this journey with you. We became friends so quickly and I couldn’t be more thankful for that. Avery, Kellieanne, Brynne, and Kate, you each offer something to this world that is so unique and special. I know last year’s court mentioned that they ate a lot but this year, our group was known as the “Snackers” because we begged for snacks every 10 minutes.

Ave, you are so strong minded and your ability to speak in front of large crowds is truly admiring. Your outgoing personality makes it so easy to have a conversation with you. It has been so fun to go through this experience together.

Kelbob, you know just how to brighten any room you walk into. You always know how to bring a good time to any event. We were friends prior to Strawberry Queen, and this experience only brought us closer. Thank you for the endless memories.

Brynnie Bean, you’re easily the quickest friend I’ve ever made. You have such a fun spirit. I know that whenever I’m a crying mess, I can turn to you for a listening ear and a

Starbucks run, specifially a Trenta Peach Green tea sweetened. You are so fun to be around and it’s always a new adventure with you. You make me laugh harder than anyone I have ever met. Thank you for being the most genuine friend I’ve ever had.

Mama Katherine, you have the kindest heart of anyone I’ve ever met. When you set your mind to something, you don’t stop until you achieve it. Your kind heart shows in everything you do. Thank you for making sure we are always cared for. You are such a loving panda empathetic person. I can’t wait to see where we all end up in 10 years. We will laugh about our crazy memories forever.

Thank you to my family and friends. You guys have supported me since day one and I couldn’t be more t hankful for each of you. A special thanks goes to Chad Chad the Real Rad dad, also known as my dad. You have always pushed me to be the best version of myself. You always give the greatest advice and most of the time I do not want to hear it, but I sure do need to. Thank you to all my parents for making me who I am today. I love you guys the most.

As my reign comes to an end, I can look back with so much happiness on my time as the 2021 Florida Strawberry Festival Queen. There is nowhere else in the world I would rather call my hometown. Thank you for giving me this opportunity of a lifetime. Thank you for letting us serve as a 2021 Strawberry Queen and Court. We will forever cherish this in our hearts.

With all the love in my heart,

Mckenna Jordan

WHAT TO WALK FOR

Glancing through all of the events and shows and displays that are offered at the Florida Strawberry Festival can feel overwhelming at times. Luckily for you, the Plant City Observer’s staff is here to help.

As I’ve said, my favorite thing about the festival is the food. But when you’re not in the mood for festival food, or when you’ve had your fill, there are still plenty of ways that you can enjoy them without continuing to rack up your calorie count!

Eating contests will be held throughout the festival to leave you awestruck by the gastronomical feats achieved by the participants. Some of the eating contests are a bit more traditional, by festival standards at least, like the Super Dog Mega Corndog Eating Contest on March 9. Others bring a bit more absurdity to the table — no pun intended — like the Strawberry Spaghetti Eating Contest on March 7 or the Strawberry Mashed Potato Pie Eating Contest on March 11.

If the engorgement of others for your entertainment isn’t quite your speed, you’re not out of luck yet. The Demonstration of Strawberry Production exhibit is held by the Florida Strawberry Growers Association and can be found just west of the Publix Showcase Tent, featuring a miniature strawberry field with farming equipment on site and knowledgable professionals that could answer all of your questions about strawberries and the massive industry that surrounds them. And if you head to Neighborhood Village you will find a room dedicated to the festival’s contest and pageant winners, with ribbons marking the topranked preserves, jellies, jams, cakes and other baked or preserved goods.

While in Neighborhood Village, make sure you spend some time giving the room a look around. In addition to their foodbased contest winners, there are numerous displays that highlight the winners of other contests that range from woodworking to scrapbooking and knitting. But arguably the most beautiful display in Neighborhood Village is the Strawberry Queen’s exhibit, two rows adorned with lace and red carpet that shines a light on this year’s queen, one former featured queen and every other Strawberry Queen in the pageant’s history, dating back to 1930.

For animal lovers, the Patterson Co. Livestock Arena will play host to several livestock shows throughout the entirety of the festival. For more fun, you can check out the Dairy Costume Ball on March 6 or the Lamb Costume Contest and Lamb Jumping Contest on March 7. Or for more serious livestock enthusiasts, the arena will hold livestock shows at different times almost every day.

And don’t forget to stop by Stingray Chevrolet vehicle display to purchase your raffle tickets and enter to win the brand new 2022 Chevrolet Corvette Convertible that will be raffled off on the final day of the festival.

Chances are the Strawberry Festival may come along with some humidity outdoors. If you want a sweet treat to help quench your thirst, there’s always creamy lemonade by Bri’s Teas. It’s a nice combination of lemonade and dairy with a bit of sugar. Bri’s Teas is located on the east side of the Hull Armory Building - 2202 W. Reynolds St. With over 80 attractions, it would definitely be worth a walk for me to jump on any number of rides. Anything that sounds the least bit scary – I’m all aboard. The Universal Horror, Alien Abduction, Ring of Fire, Typhoon, Drop Zone, Cliffhanger, Dark Ride, and Cyclone Coaster are on my list. Although we’ve mentioned the many new foods that will be at the festival, I’d like to share the ones that I think would be worth my walk.

Fried Mac and Cheese Balls. Turning an all-American dish into an even more delicious treat works for me. This will be located at Seasoned Greens near the GT Grandstand entrance.

The name alone makes Applewood Jack Fruit sandwiches worth a try. And if you’re looking for a substitute for meat, like myself, then this might be for you. This is going to be located at the Seasoned Greens near the GT Grandstand entrance.

I can never get enough of any food that has macaroni and cheese associated with it. At Holy Macaroni, you receive gourmet macaroni and cheese, with a choice of pasta, a three-cheese blend, and various vegetables, meat and seafood. This will be located on Edwards Street.

There’s also a number of vendors that I may drop by.

Annie’s Pooch Pops has all natural pet treats. Although I don’t have a dog, my friend’s Jack Russell Terrier will enjoy something from there.

This vendor will be located in the Parke Exhibit Building south of the TECO Expo Hall.

Then for my sweet tooth, there’s the Caramel Kitchen which has an assortment of caramel sauces in different flavors including, salted, bourbon, chocolate, cinnamon, vanilla, espresso, and chipotle.

Whatever you choose at the festival, I’m sure it will all be worth the walk.

TAYLOR JENKINS

BRIAN FERNANDES

THINGS TO WATCH

The Plant City Observer staff has a few recommendations for what to watch when you’re at the festival this year.

The Florida Strawberry Festival will welcome back a star-studded lineup of headline entertainment this year, but with so many hours in the day and so many things to see, there are still plenty of other entertainment options for festival-goers.

Taylor Jenkins

There’s so many things to love about the Florida Strawberry Festival, and while the headline entertainment and fried food are often the fist things that pop into everyone’s mind — mine included — there are a ton of other fun and unique shows and performances to see while you’re here.

Arguably my favorite event to grab a bite to eat, sit back and enjoy is the one-of-akind performances from Robinson’s Racing Pigs. The show will take place every day of the festival at 11 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., so no matter when you find ourself free for a few minutes, you can find time o see the piglets fly out of the chute, around the track, through the water and across the finish line with blazing speed.

If you want a good, wholesome laugh, the livestock costume contests are for you. The Dairy Costume Ball will take place on Sunday, March 6 in the Patterson Co. Livestock Arena, featuring participants of all ages putting together coordinated costumes with their steer and proudly parading around the arena in search of the top prize. The following day, on Monday, March 7 at 7 p.m., it will be time for the Lamb Costume Contest being held in the same venue.

If the headline acts haven’t satiated your appetite for great music, then make your way over to the Publix Entertainment Tent where bands will be performing most days at 6 p.m. Whether you’re looking for Bluegrass from Rekindled Bits of Grass, the southern rock stylings of SouthBound or the hard riffs from classic rock-inspired bands like SickHot and Brake Fail, make sure you check the schedule of events to see exactly who will be performing when you’re at the festival.

Brian Fernandes

Being that this will be my fist time attending the Florida Strawberry Festival, I will have a lot to explore just like any other newcomer. One of the things that I look forward to are the contests – as a spectator, not a contestant. I love to see others compete in fun activities. In all, there will be eight food contests at the festival.

The Strawberry Spaghetti Eating Contest is definiely on my list. Ten contestants will be vying for the trophy, which will be given to the fist one that finishs a bowl of spaghetti eaten with a wooden spoon. It sounds messy but fun. This will occur on Monday, March 7 at 5 p.m. under the Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent.

And I also want to witness the Super Dog Mega Corndog Eating Contest. Eight contestants are each given two mega corndogs. The fist contestant to finish the two corndogs, leaving a clean plate, will be awarded with a trophy. Again, sounds messy but fun to watch. This event will take place on Wednesday, March 9 at 2 p.m. under the Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent.

Strawberry shortcake is a classic pastry and may very well become the official Flida State dessert. What better way to show support than consuming as much in one day as possible. In this contest, 10 participants will be given 10 minutes to eat four pounds of whipped strawberry shortcake. Bibs and utensils will be provided. The one who finishs fist will be given an unusual trophy. This will take place on Wednesday, March 10 at 2 p.m. under the Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent.

The Strawberry Mashed Potato Pie Eating Contest is definiely a fist for me and probably the most unconventional contest I’ve heard of. Potatoes and strawberries aren’t two foods that I would associate with one another, but the festival is all about allowing your imagination to run wild. Ten contestants will each have a pie plate with mashed potatoes, adorned with strawberries in front of them. The fist to finish their pie will be awarded with a trophy. This will be held on Friday, March 11 at 3 p.m. under the Stingray Chevrolet Entertainment Tent.

Courtesy of the Florida Strawberry Festival

REVISITING SOME FAVORITE FESTIVAL FOODS

Some people come to the Strawberry Festival for the rides, some come for the agriculture shows or the headline entertainment or the timeless traditions shared with family and friends. But me? I’m not going to lie to you, my number one focus when I walk through those gates is the food.

Sure, it’s fun to take in the breathtaking view of Plant City from the top of a ferris wheel, cheering on the little porkers at Robinson’s Racing Pigs, busting out a hearty laugh seeing the lambs all dolled for a costume contest and finishing our day at a concert where the headline entertainer blares the song that’s been stuck in your head since its fist radio play two months ago.

Sure, sure. That’s cool. But have you ever eaten funnel bacon on a stick, washed down with a strawberry lemonade? You heard me right, funnel bacon on a stick. That’s bacon on a stick, dipped

in funnel cake batter, fried to a golden brown and topped with powdered sugar and a maple butter glaze.

So many things make the Florida Strawberry Festival a unique and endlessly memorable experience, but the food is truly one-of-a-kind. Most of us try to regularly balance our diets to avoid excess amounts of sugar and fried goodies, but this is the festival, where the rules are made up and the calories don’t matter. Here’s a look back on some of our all-time delectable favorites.

To start, it’s hard to beat a classic smoked turkey leg. They’re big, they’re filling and ou don’t even have to stop and sit down to eat it. That smokey tang that you can almost exclusively experience at festivals and fairs will bring on all of those memories as you peel back the warm foil and take another bite.

Then comes the Fiske Fries. Sure, fries aren’t anything limited

to the festival, but Fiske Fries have made their way to events around the country for over 80 years now, and for good reason. The fresh-peeled, fresh-cut and fresh-cooked fries all start with a good potato before being fried to a golden brown and seasoned to perfection. It’s true that fries aren’t typically anything special as you can find them at narly every fast food joint in the world, but Fiske Fries are the gold(en brown) standard.

Next we have to get some cheese, and there are few — if any — places that I like better than the Hot Wisconsin Cheese booths. Despite the fact that I will likely typically spend nearly every day at the Festival as a reporter for the Plant City Observer, I understand that I will have to show some form of impulse control and not allow myself to eat every meal for the better part of two weeks straight out of a fryer and passed through a sliding-glass

window. But one thing I will not allow myself to miss is Hot Wisconsin Cheese. While most mozzarella sticks come frozen, pre-prepared and coated with a thick, doughy breading, that couldn’t be further from the truth for Hot Wisconsin Cheese. Step up, place your order and watch as they grab sticks of mozzarella, coat it in their batter and immediately lower it into the frier before your very eyes. The result is so much more than your run-of-themill cheese stick, but a steaming, stretchy bite through the light and crispy shell that makes their product so darn good. Some of Hot Wisconsin Cheese’s other favorites include Cheddar Bites, or Jalapeño Cheddar Bites if you need that extra kick.

If you’re craving something sweet, there are limitless places to get your fix For me, I love Peachey’s amish donuts. They’re warm, they’re light, they’re fluy and just so darn good. You know

how everyone talks about the butterflis in their stomach when they see the “Hot Now” sign light up at Krispy Kreme? You’ll get that same feeling from Peachey’s, and don’t forget about their pretzels. I had one of each for the fist time this year at the Florida State Fair and my mouth is already watering at the thought of trying them again here in Plant City. For a more traditional dish that still offers a flvorful twist, Pickle Barrel’s sirloin tips are a great all-in-one option with a bed of mashed potatoes, smothered with steak and sautéed onions, mushrooms and peppers. And last, but certainly not least, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the strawberry shortcakes. The classic dish can be found from several different vendors all across the festival grounds, with sugary, sweet strawberries and whipped cream layered over homemade shortcake — or sometimes even biscuits.

TAYLOR JENKINS STAFF WRITER

1930 Charlotte Rosenberg 1931 Irvin Wilder

Elizabeth Carey 1933 Christine Walden

Dorothy Adelson 1935 Virginia Moody

1936 Pauline Schulte 1937 Eloise Howell

Norma Robinson 1939 Faye Mott

Catherine Fletcher 1941 Jane Langford

1948 Barbara Alley 1949 Peggy Hodges 1950 Etta Mae Helzer 1951 Edwana Snowden 1956 Virgina Berry 1957 Linda Potter 1958 Sheila West 1959 Linda Eady

1960 Betty Jean Cook 1961 Diane O’Callaghan 1962 Marlene Coon 1963 Janice Barnes 1964 Georgia Blevins 1965 Sandra Link

1952 Arvor Lois Harris 1953 Ruby Jean Barker

1954 Ruth Shuman 1955 Betty Clements

The Royal Gallery

Florida Strawberry Festival® Queens—Past to Present

1976 Martha Lastinger 1977 Karen Owens 1978 Mimi Phillips 1979 Pam Smith

1973

Phyllis Head 1974 Denise Watts 1975 Sheryl Simmons

1980 Lisa Lynn Harris 1981 Pam Farris 1982 Nancy Lyn Wright 1983 Lisa Johnson

Sandra Howard 1985 Kay Denise Newsome 1986 Rebecca Lynn Lewis

1987 Rebecca Sue Brown 1988 Robyn Cherie Simmons 1989 Kristen Lynn Martinson 1990 JoAnna Lynn Cooper

1991 Stephanie Chesser 1992 Lisa Stanaland 1993 Ashley Brooke Moody

1971 Sherrie Chambers 1972 Linda Scanlon

1967 Maria Junquera 1968 Silvia Azorin 1969 Dee Zoet

1970 Krysta Nifong

1966 Cathy Mascali

Amy Marie Norman

Stephanie St. Martin

Jessica Eran McDonald

Kayla Sharee Drawdy

Alison Dianne Archbell

2001 Kellie Ann Hinson

Shannon Davis

Erica Leann Der

Ashley Watkins

Hannah Hodge

Summer Pippin

2008 Kristen Smith

Lauren Der

Burgin

Victoria Watkins

Chelsea Bowden

Kelsey Fry

Jessi Rae Varnum 2015 Samantha Sun

Haley Riley

Drew Knotts

Ally Burt

1956 Mary Jane Jackson 1956 National Strawberry Queen

2019 Kendall Gaudens 2020 Meghan White 20201 McKenna Jordan

1994 Amy Swilley 1995 Courtney Lee Clark

GETTING TO THE FESTIVAL, AND WHERE TO PARK ONCE YOU’RE HERE.

If you’ve never been to the Florida Strawberry Festival, navigating the journey to Plant City and through town can be a daunting task for those 11 days. But no worries, we’ve got you covered.

When you sit around with friends and family planning your day at the festival, you probably think about that day’s headline entertainment or what fried food you want to eat or which animal you want to see run, jump and dress up for a costume contest. But what may get overlooked is all of the logistics that go into getting to Plant City and reaching the festival’s front gate once you actually get there.

Each year over 500,000 visitors flock to the winter strawberry capital of the world for their annual 11-day festival, and traffic closely and predictably follows that massive influx of people.

Lucky for you, the festival and the city have thousands of cheerful and willing volunteers to help festival-goers get through town and to a suitable parking place as easily as possible.

There is a number of options available for parking on the festival grounds, with Blue, Grey and Red Parking Lots located on Ritter Street and off of Highway 92 or Highway 574. If you want to park in these spots, the cost will run you $5 for cars, pickup trucks and vans under 20 feet, a pretty reasonable price for an event of this size. If you’re coming from out of town by way of your recreational vehicle, parking for vehicles between 20 and 39 feet will cost $10 and anything over 40 feet will cost $15.

GETTING THERE

If you’re coming from Tampa or somewhere else east of Plant City, Interstate 4 may be the most direct route, but it’s important to remember that I-4 will likely deal with a signifiant amount of traffic dueo everyone else that wants to come as well! Make sure to check trafficeports before you head this way, as FL-574 may be a more convenient route that would lead you directly

Additionally, for inquiries about reserving a space in the Seminole Lake RV Lot, located immediately west of the Festival grounds, please call the Festival office at 813-752-9194 ext. 233.

If you choose one of the Festival’s many available lots, don’t fear a long walk to the front gate. T Mobile trams will be running daily from all three parking lots to entry gates 10 and 14.

Along with parking options at the actual Festival grounds, there are also plenty of spots that will be made available by residents or business owners around town. These options offer visitors an alternative to the bustling lots on the grounds while also giving individuals an opportunity to make some extra cash that often makes its way right back into the community through charity work and other acts of service. Not only are these parking spaces legitimate, they’re actually encouraged by the festival themselves. But before you choose to throw your car in park and head to the front gate, be sure that your spot is clearly designated as festival parking.

But no matter where you end up parking, be safe. Make a note of your exact location, roll up your windows, lock your doors and take all proper precautions to protect and valuable and other belongings that you have in your car to ensure that you don’t end up in our weekly list of police reports.

to the south side of the festival.

If you’re coming from the south, you could take Highway 60. Once in Plant City via Highway 60, you could either take FL-39 north to Alexander Street or US-92 or take it up to Turkey Creek Road before hanging a left at US 92.

If you’re coming from the north, your best option wold likely be to take US92 all the way to the festival grounds.

SCENES FROM 2021

Last year’s festival lived up to the hype, as always. Here is a look back at some of the photos taken by the Observer staff at the 021 Florida Strawberry Festival.

A FURTHER LOOK BACK

The Plant City Observer has been around to cover the Florida Strawberry Festival for years. Here is a collection that includes some of the best photos they’ve taken since 2013.

BLAST FROM THE PAST

The Florida Strawberry Festival has a long, proud history that’s woven into Plant City’s identity. These photos, which were collected by and are courtesy of the Plant City Photo Archives and History Center, help illustrate that.

All about those BERRIES

The perfect temperature for strawberry plants is between 55 and 78 degrees.

The strawberry is the only fruit in the world that has its seeds on the outside.

Belgium is home to the Musée de la Fraise de Wepion, or the Wepion Strawberry Museum in English, a museum all about strawberries.

Strawberries are grown in every single U.S. state and Canadian province.

Strawberries are believed to help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain cancers. They are low in calories and high in vitamins C, B6, K, fibe, folic acid, potassium and amino acids.

Ancient Romans belieed that strawberries had medicinal powers.

STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL

POP QUIZ

1. How many calories are in a cup of strawberries?

A: 30

B: 55

C: 95

D: 150

2. What flwer family does the strawberry belong to?

A: Rose

B: Bean

C: Pepper

D: Nightshade

3. According to the USDA, how many pounds of fresh strawberries to Americans eat per year?

A: 1.2

B: 2.6

C: 3.4

D: 4.7

4. How many seeds are on the outside of a strawberry?

A: 100

B: 200

C: 300

D: 400

5. What are the dates for Florida’s strawberry season?

A: December through May

B: January through April

C: February through June

D: November through March

6. According to the university of Illinois, What percentage of American Households consume strawberries every year?

A: 66%

B: 72%

C: 87%

D: 94%

7. How many varieties of strawberries are grown around the world?

A: 108

B: 199

C: 247

D: 305

8. What is Florida’s most popular strawberry variety?

A: Radiance

B: Beauty

C: Sweet Sensation

D: Elyana