As the Florida sun continues to nurture both the soil and the soul, the Florida Strawberry Festival has ripe news for its fans. With a heritage deeply-rooted in agriculture, the 2026 festival is poised to celebrate its 91st annual gathering under the theme ‘Still Growing.’ This theme reflects not just the literal growth of the berries but also the development of the community and the enduring spirit of the festival.
Announcing the theme, Florida Strawberry Festival officials also showcased a new poster, featuring the festival's berry character against a backdrop of the grandstands and stage – a backdrop synonymous with the entertainment that draws visitors from near and far. As reported by WFLA, this emblematic character is likely to greet the anticipated crowd of 600,000 as they come to partake in the fair's diverse offerings.
But the Strawberry Festival is more than just a single fruit; it's a symphony of experiences that range from youth livestock shows to exhibits of commerce, culminating in strawberry shortcake indulgence. "Still Growing' beautifully captures who we are as a Festival and as a community," Pam Warnock, the Chairman of the Board for the festival, told WTSP. She expounded on the significance of the festival's connection to agriculture and family traditions, emphasizing their evolution along with the community's progress.
Amidst the scent of fresh strawberries and amid the sounds of joy, the upcoming event seems set to offer new experiences while revering the heritage that underscores its appeal. With 600,000 visitors descending upon Plant City, the festival remains as a testament to a community, as expressed in a statement obtained by FOX 13 News.
