It’s that time of year again. Time to go wild on the midway rides, eat strawberry everything, marvel at farm animals, and enjoy an evening of music under the stars. It’s time for the Florida Strawberry Festival, an annual tradition since 1930 taking place in Plant City, Florida (just east of Tampa) on March 2-13. Here are just a few of the reasons you don’t want to miss it!

1. It’s Cheap Entertainment

Tickets for the fair are $10 at the event and $8 at Publix stores around town. There are loads of opportunities for discounts including several free kid days. Most of the awesome events at the fair are free with admission, including parades, animal shows, and pig races! Most of the musical entertainment is under $40 per ticket, and several are free. Just avoid those pretty stuffed animals at the midway games and you can have a great day for a very reasonable price.

2. It’s Nostalgia at its Best

When was the last time you pet a rabbit or saw a sheep up close? Fairs have been around since the early days of U.S. history and they have changed little over the years. You could go and just eat and see a band, but if you peek into the livestock auction, or head into the product tent to get a cooking demo from a busker, you are participating in an important tradition that has been going on for generations.

3. Strawberry Shortcake!

… and strawberry milk shakes, and strawberry tacos, and strawberry pizza (why not?)! If you love strawberries (and who doesn’t?) this is your time to indulge in the best. On top of that, most of the food vendors at this festival are local organizations and businesses and not national food chains, so you can feel good about eating your heart out.

Want to get more information on events in and around the Tampa area? Check out our blog.