When Is the Strawberry Festival 2024?

You can catch the Florida Strawberry Festival 2024 from February 29th to March 10th in Plant City, Florida. The festival runs daily, opening at 10 a.m. and closing at 10 p.m., with extended hours until 11 p.m. on weekends and Mondays.

Get ready for rides, concerts, and family fun. If you want to make the most of your visit with special events, ticket info, and parking tips, there’s plenty more to explore.

Florida Strawberry Festival 2024 Start and End Dates

The Florida Strawberry Festival 2024 runs from February 29th to March 10th, giving you 11 days to enjoy everything it offers. This annual event celebrates the local strawberry harvest and the vibrant community spirit in Plant City, Florida.

You’ll find a variety of attractions, including thrilling rides, live concerts, and plenty of strawberry-themed food that highlight the festival’s unique charm.

Held at the Wish Farms Soundstage on 303 N. Lemon St., the Florida Strawberry Festival provides daily entertainment and activities to keep you engaged throughout its duration.

Whether you’re a local or visiting, these dates give you ample time to plan your trip and experience all the fun and flavors this beloved festival delivers each year.

Florida Strawberry Festival Daily Hours and Midway Times

You’ll find the Florida Strawberry Festival open daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

But if you’re planning to visit on weekends or Mondays, they’ve got extended hours until 11 p.m., which is pretty nice.

Now, about the Belle City Midway — it kicks off at noon on weekdays.

However, on weekends, it opens earlier, starting at 10 a.m., so you get a bit more time for the rides and games.

Oh, and don’t forget to mark your calendar for special events like Moonlight Magic on March 8th.

On that night, the midway stays open late, and the best part? There’s no gate admission!

It’s definitely something to look forward to.

Festival Operating Hours

Running from February 29 to March 10, 2024, the Florida Strawberry Festival welcomes you daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with extended hours until 11 p.m. on weekends and Mondays.

You’ll find plenty of time to explore the Strawberry Festival’s vibrant atmosphere, enjoy food, entertainment, and shopping.

Keep in mind, the Belle City Midway opens at noon on weekdays and 10 a.m. on weekends, giving you extra time to experience the rides.

On March 8, the midway closes before 10 p.m. but reopens later from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m. for Moonlight Magic, a special late-night event where no gate admission is required after 10 p.m.

This schedule guarantees you can plan your visit to make the most of the festival’s hours.

Midway Opening Times

Midway excitement kicks off daily at 10 a.m., giving you plenty of time to enjoy rides and attractions.

The Florida Strawberry Festival’s midway opening times vary slightly throughout the week. From Tuesday to Friday, the midway opens at noon and stays open until 11 p.m., while on weekends and Mondays, it welcomes visitors from 10 a.m. until 11 p.m.

On March 8, note a special schedule: the midway closes before 10 p.m. but reopens for Moonlight Magic from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.

If you attend Moonlight Magic, you won’t need gate admission after 10 p.m. These midway opening times guarantee you can plan your visit to catch all the fun, from thrilling rides to tasty festival treats.

How to Buy Florida Strawberry Festival 2024 Tickets

Wondering how to secure your tickets for the Florida Strawberry Festival 2024? You can buy tickets online or at participating Publix stores.

Advance tickets cost $10 for adults and $4 for children ages 6-12. If you wait to buy at the gate, prices jump to $15 for adults and $5 for kids 6-12, while children 5 and under get in free with a paying adult.

Save with advance tickets: $10 adults, $4 kids 6-12; gate prices rise to $15 and $5 respectively.

To avoid higher gate prices and long lines, it’s best to purchase tickets early.

Note that concert tickets sell separately online via the festival’s website.

Florida Strawberry Festival Discount Tickets & Special Admission Days

Although ticket prices at the gate are higher, you can save by purchasing discount admission tickets from February 1 through March 10 at participating Publix stores.

These discounted tickets make it easier to enjoy the Florida Strawberry Festival without breaking the bank. Here’s how you can benefit:

1. Get adult tickets for $10 and children’s tickets (ages 6-12) for $4 in advance at Publix.
2. Children 5 and under enter free with a paid adult, both in advance and at the gate.
3. Take advantage of special admission days during the festival for reduced prices.

Festival Attractions and Key Events by Date

When you visit the festival, you’ll find the Belle City Midway opens at noon daily and at 10 a.m. on weekends.

That gives you plenty of time to enjoy over 80 rides and attractions.

And don’t miss the nightly headlining concerts at 7:30 PM on the Wish Farms Soundstage. They feature big names like Oliver Anthony and ZZ Top.

You can also catch special events like youth livestock shows and craft competitions. These really highlight local talents throughout the festival.

Daily Midway Hours

The Florida Strawberry Festival 2024 offers daily midway hours that cater to every schedule, running from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on most days, with extended hours until 11 p.m. on weekends and Mondays.

From Tuesday to Friday, the midway opens later at noon but stays open until 11 p.m., giving you extra evening time to enjoy rides and games.

On March 8th, experience a special twist as the midway closes before 10 p.m. then reopens for Moonlight Magic from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., with no gate admission required after 10 p.m.

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Daily midway hours vary by day. Check times for your visit.
2. Extended evening hours on weekends and Mondays.
3. Moonlight Magic offers late-night fun on March 8th.

Concert Schedule Highlights

Ten nights of live music await you at the Florida Strawberry Festival 2024, running from February 29th to March 10th.

The concert schedule highlights include daily performances at 7:30 PM on the Wish Farms Soundstage, featuring top artists like Oliver Anthony, Jordan Davis, and ZZ Top. Each night promises a unique vibe, catering to diverse musical tastes.

Keep in mind, separate tickets are required for the headlining concert series, which you can easily purchase online through the festival’s official website.

Alongside these big-name acts, you’ll find free daily entertainment at four different tents scattered across the grounds, offering additional musical performances and a lively atmosphere.

These concert schedule highlights make the festival a must-visit for music lovers all around.

Special Festival Activities

Beyond the thrilling concert lineup, you’ll find a wide array of special activities designed to keep everyone entertained throughout the Florida Strawberry Festival 2024. From February 29th to March 10th, the festival offers over 80 rides and attractions, plus daily events that appeal to all ages.

Here are some special activities you won’t want to miss:

1. Agricultural and craft competitions showcasing local talent and creativity.
2. Fun contests like the strawberry eating contest and the egg toss to test your skills and have a blast.
3. Children’s activities that keep the little ones engaged while you explore the Belle City Midway.

These special activities guarantee each day is packed with excitement beyond the headline concerts, making your festival experience unforgettable.

Florida Strawberry Festival 2024 Headline Concert Schedule

Over twelve nights from February 29th to March 10th, you can catch headline concerts at 7:30 PM during the Florida Strawberry Festival 2024.

The lineup features big names like Oliver Anthony, Jordan Davis, and ZZ Top, offering something for every music fan.

You don’t need separate tickets for these headline concerts; they’re included with your festival gate admission.

If you want to plan your evenings around specific performances, the full concert schedule is available on the festival’s official website.

Tickets for the headline acts can be purchased online through the site, making it easy to secure your spot.

Whether you come for the music or the festivities, these headline concerts add an exciting highlight to your festival experience.

Family-Friendly and Kids’ Activities Schedule

You’ll find plenty of family-friendly fun throughout the Florida Strawberry Festival from February 29th to March 10th, 2024.

The festival offers a full schedule of family-friendly activities designed to entertain kids and adults alike.

Here’s what you can look forward to:

1. SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo Kiddie Korral opens daily at 10 a.m., featuring wide aisles for strollers and fun children’s attractions.
2. Enjoy free daily entertainment at four tents with musical performances and engaging children’s activities.
3. Explore over 80 rides and attractions on the Belle City Midway, opening at noon on weekdays and 10 a.m. on weekends, plus special youth livestock shows and agricultural competitions.

These family-friendly activities guarantee every day is packed with fun for your entire family.

Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds and Shorter Lines

Although the Florida Strawberry Festival 2024 runs daily from February 29 to March 10, you’ll find smaller crowds and shorter lines if you visit on weekdays, especially Tuesday through Friday.

These best times to visit for smaller crowds and shorter lines let you enjoy rides and attractions with less waiting.

Arriving early, before the Midway opens at noon, can further reduce your time in line. Avoid weekends and special discount days, as they tend to draw larger crowds.

Visiting on the festival’s first or last day is also a smart choice since many attendees prefer mid-festival dates.

Florida Strawberry Festival Parking Options and Hours

When you arrive at the Florida Strawberry Festival, you’ll find parking in the Blue, Gray, and Red lots, all accessible via Ritter Street. The rates vary depending on your vehicle size — it’s $5 for smaller cars and up to $15 for larger buses.

Be sure to plan your visit during the festival hours, which run from February 29th to March 10th.

That way, you can secure a spot and avoid the crowds. It’s always better to get there early!

Parking Lot Locations

Three main parking lots, Blue, Gray, and Red, serve the Florida Strawberry Festival.

They’re accessible via Ritter Street off Highway 92 or Highway 574. You’ll find Gray and Red Parking offer convenient access to the festival grounds, making your arrival and departure smoother.

To help you plan:

1. Blue Lot: Ideal for early arrivals, closest to main entrances.
2. Gray and Red Parking: Both provide easy access and ample space for standard vehicles.
3. Arrive early to secure your spot, especially on busy days.

Vehicle Size Pricing

Knowing where to park is just part of planning your visit to the Florida Strawberry Festival. Understanding the vehicle size pricing will help you choose the best parking option and avoid surprises.

If you’re driving a car, pickup truck, or van under 20 feet, the parking fee is $5. For vehicles between 20 and 39 feet, expect to pay $10. Larger vehicles or buses over 40 feet are charged $15.

Parking is available in the Blue, Gray, and Red lots, accessible via Ritter Street off Highway 92 or Highway 574. Since space can fill up quickly, especially during peak hours, arriving early guarantees you get a spot that fits your vehicle size.

Keeping vehicle size pricing in mind makes your festival experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Operating Hours Details

Although the Florida Strawberry Festival runs daily from February 29th through March 10th, 2024, you’ll want to plan your visit around the hours of 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

On weekends and Mondays, the hours extend until 11 p.m. to make the most of your experience.

Parking on the festival grounds is conveniently accessible via Ritter Street, which connects to Highway 92 or Highway 574.

To guarantee a smooth visit, keep these tips in mind:

1. Arrive early for the best parking spots in Blue, Gray, or Red lots.
2. Parking fees depend on vehicle size, ranging from $5 to $15.
3. Rent wheelchairs or scooters by reservation to navigate the festival grounds comfortably.

This way, you can enjoy everything the festival offers without hassle.

Planning Your Visit: Key Dates and Special Events

Since the Florida Strawberry Festival 2024 spans 11 exciting days from February 29th to March 10th, you’ll want to plan your visit to catch all the family-friendly entertainment and special events.

Take advantage of special discounted gate admission at participating Publix stores from February 1 through March 10, with adults at $10 and kids (6-12) at $4.

Don’t miss the daily concerts at the Wish Farms Soundstage starting each night at 7:30 PM.

Midway attractions open at 10 a.m. and run until 10 p.m., with extended weekend hours.

Be sure to mark March 8th for Moonlight Magic, a special event offering midnight fun with free gate admission after 10 p.m.

Planning ahead guarantees you won’t miss these highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Is the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival Held?

You’ll find the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival location stretching from North 6th Street to Memorial Park in Ponchatoula, Louisiana.

This area provides plenty of space for all the festival’s exciting activities, including food booths, amusement rides, and live entertainment.

When you visit, you’ll enjoy the vibrant atmosphere right in the heart of the “Strawberry Capital of Louisiana,” making it easy to explore and experience everything the festival has to offer.

What Is the History of the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival?

You might think a small town festival wouldn’t hold much history, but the Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival has deep roots dating back to 1974.

It celebrates the strawberry significance in Louisiana, highlighting this sweet fruit’s role in the local economy and culture.

Over the years, it grew from a humble gathering to a lively event with rides, contests, and community support.

You’ll see how tradition and fun perfectly blend here.

Are Pets Allowed at the Strawberry Festival?

Pets aren’t allowed at the Strawberry Festival due to strict pet policies designed to keep everyone safe and comfortable.

You can bring service animals, though, as they’re permitted under ADA rules.

If you’re thinking of attending, it’s best to arrange care for your pets ahead of time.

For the most accurate details on pet policies, you should check the festival’s official website or contact the organizers directly.

Is the Festival Accessible for People With Disabilities?

Yes, the festival offers great accessibility options for people with disabilities.

You can rent wheelchairs or scooters online or by phone, and designated parking spots make your arrival easier.

The festival grounds are designed with accessible routes, and you’ll find a helpful map to navigate.

Plus, the Wish Farms Pixies in teal are ready to assist and guide you, ensuring you enjoy all the festival activities comfortably.

What Types of Food Vendors Participate in the Festival?

You’ll find an impressive food variety at the festival, with vendors serving everything from fresh and chocolate-dipped strawberries to strawberry shortcake and cobblers.

New treats like Almond Joy funnel cake, CinnaBerry dogs, and deep-fried strawberry shortcake cookie dough add excitement.

Local farms bring fresh strawberries and unique creations, while classic items like jams and parfaits guarantee every strawberry lover leaves happy.

The festival truly celebrates local agriculture through its delicious offerings.

Conclusion

As you get ready to plunge into the sweet celebration of the Florida Strawberry Festival 2024, remember it’s your chance to create memories as timeless as a classic fairytale. From thrilling rides to juicy treats, every moment promises a little magic.

So mark your calendar, grab your tickets, and step into a world where summer sweetness meets unforgettable fun. You won’t want to miss this berry special adventure!