Plant City, Florida, is preparing for one of its busiest times of the year as the 2026 Florida Strawberry Festival returns from February 26 through March 8. The annual celebration blends Florida agriculture with live entertainment, family attractions, carnival rides and fresh strawberry treats, making it one of the state’s largest community events.
The festival attracted more than 650,000 visitors during its previous edition, and another strong turnout is expected this year. Beyond providing entertainment, the event plays an important role in supporting local businesses, hotels, restaurants and strawberry growers across the Plant City and Tampa Bay area.
Festival fans interested in other major live entertainment events may also want to explore Olivia Rodrigo’s all-women Daisy Chain Fields Festival featuring Chappell Roan, Stevie Nicks and Doechii, which is scheduled for 2026.
Ticket prices and advance discounts
General admission costs $15 for visitors aged 13 and older. Children between 6 and 12 years old pay $5, while children aged five and under receive free admission with a paying adult.
Visitors who purchase tickets in advance through participating Publix stores can save on admission. Advance pricing is $10 for adults and $4 for children aged 6 to 12, making it a popular option for families planning ahead.
General admission provides access to the festival grounds, exhibits and attractions. Concert tickets are sold separately and are required for reserved performances.
Parking information before you arrive
Festival-operated parking is available for $10 per vehicle under 20 feet. Organizers say parking lots accept cash payments only, so visitors should prepare before arriving.
Traffic typically increases during weekends and before evening concerts. Guests arriving earlier in the day generally experience shorter waits for parking, security screening and festival entry.
Fresh strawberry desserts remain the main attraction
The famous strawberry shortcake continues to be one of the festival’s biggest draws. Traditional servings are available from longtime community organizations including St. Clements, Transforming Life Church and the East Hillsborough Historical Society.
Alongside those longtime favorites, vendors are introducing several new strawberry-inspired creations designed exclusively for the 2026 event.
- Dubai strawberry chocolate cups layered with strawberries, chocolate and pistachios.
- Strawberry crunch nachos featuring waffle cone chips, cheesecake dip and glazed strawberries.
- Strawberry BBQ egg rolls combining sweet strawberries with smoky barbecue flavors.
These limited-time menu items join dozens of traditional fair foods available throughout the festival grounds.
Concert schedule features nationally known artists
The entertainment lineup spans country, gospel, rock and R&B, with concert tickets priced between $25 and $110, depending on the performer and seating location.
The opening day schedule includes Jimmy Sturr & His Orchestra, The Oak Ridge Boys and Alabama. Throughout the festival, visitors can also see performances by Jo Dee Messina, Jamey Johnson, Lonestar, Ty Myers, Riley Green, Brian McKnight, Ginuwine, Ruben Studdard, Lauren Daigle, Brantley Gilbert, Dierks Bentley, The Marshall Tucker Band, The Offspring and Joan Jett & the Blackhearts.
Riley Green’s March 1 performance ranks among the highest-priced concerts this year, while organizers have confirmed that Forrest Frank’s March 6 concert has already sold out, highlighting strong demand for selected headline acts.
A major event for Florida’s strawberry industry
The Florida Strawberry Festival began as a celebration of the region’s agricultural heritage and continues to spotlight one of Florida’s most valuable fruit crops. Every year, growers, community organizations and local businesses come together to showcase the area’s strawberry harvest during its peak season.
The festival also creates additional demand for hotels, restaurants, retail stores and transportation services, providing an economic boost that extends well beyond the festival grounds.
Tips for planning your visit
Visitors hoping to enjoy shorter lines at food stands, exhibits and carnival rides should consider arriving during the morning or early afternoon. Weekend evenings and nights featuring major concerts usually attract the largest crowds.
Anyone planning to attend a headline performance should purchase concert tickets early, as popular shows can sell out before the festival begins.
For updated schedules, ticket availability, parking details and official visitor information, organizers recommend checking the Florida Strawberry Festival’s official website before traveling.
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