Strawberry Festival Tampa 2026: Dates, Tickets & Guide

Strawberry Festival Tampa is back in Plant City, celebrating Florida’s signature fruit with 11 days of jam-packed fun. 

From livestock contests to Grammy-winning headliners, this festival is more than just strawberries. 

With hundreds of vendors and daily attractions, it continues to draw over 500,000 visitors each year. 

Read on to discover the best times to visit, where to park, and how to grab the best concert seats at the Tampa Strawberry Festival.

Tampa Strawberry Festival Dates & Schedule

The 2026 Tampa Strawberry Festival runs from Thursday, February 26 through Sunday, March 8, for 11 straight days. 

The festival grounds open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., with concerts, midway rides, and contests happening throughout the day. 

While it runs rain or shine, Friday, March 6 includes a special Moonlight Magic late-night midway session until 2:00 a.m. 

The best time to go is weekday mornings for smaller crowds and easier parking.

Tickets

Ticket Types

• General Admission: General Admission includes access to all exhibits, free entertainment, and the midway (ride tickets sold separately).
• Timed Entry: Timed Entry is not required—arrive anytime during open hours.
• Kids/Seniors: Children 5 and under enter free with paid adult; discounts available at Publix for ages 6–12 and 13+.

Where to Buy Strawberry Festival Tampa Tickets

Purchase tickets at the Solution Source Construction Box Office, Publix stores across Central Florida, or online via Etix.

Ticket Tips

• Buy ahead for weekends and big-name concert nights.
• Go early to secure parking and shorter lines at rides and food stalls.
• Keep in mind that concert tickets are separate and do not include gate admission.

Getting to the Florida Strawberry Festival Grounds

Directions & Address

• Address: 303 BerryFest Place, Plant City, FL 33563.
• Arrival Tips: From Tampa, take I-4 east to Exit 17, south to MLK Blvd, then east to BerryFest Place.

Parking & Pricing

• General Parking: Onsite parking is $10 for cars at color-coded lots like Red (Gate 14), Blue (Hwy 574), and Orange.
• Best Lot: Red Lot (Gate 14) is closest to trams and major gates.
• Accessibility: ADA parking is available near Gate 1 (W. Oak Ave) and across Gate 14.
• Shuttles: Free trams run daily between Red Lot and Gates 1, 5, 10, and 14.

Rideshare & Public Transit

• Rideshare: Drop-offs are recommended at Gate 1 or near BerryFest Place to avoid congestion.
• Public Transit: Not directly available—plan for taxi, Uber, or private drop-off.

Pro Tip: Avoid Hwy 574 congestion by approaching from Alexander Street and entering at Reynolds for easier access.

What to Expect at Strawberry Festival Tampa 2026

The Main Experience

Expect a fair-style event with indoor and outdoor exhibits, daily contests, carnival rides, and big-name concerts. It’s family-friendly, agriculture-centered, and strawberry-themed from top to bottom.

2026 Highlights

• Fresh Strawberry Shortcake: Florida-grown berries piled high with cream and cake.
• Headline Entertainment: Top-tier artists like Alabama, Lauren Daigle, and The Offspring.
• Livestock Shows: Steer, poultry, rabbit, and lamb contests showcasing Florida youth.
• Midway Rides: Classic fair rides and the SUN ’n FUN Kiddie Korral.
• Parades & Contests: Donut eating, decorated diapers, and strawberry-themed races.

Crowds & Atmosphere

Expect moderate crowds on weekdays and heavy foot traffic on weekends and during evening concerts. The energy is upbeat and loud near the stadium, but calmer in exhibit areas and garden showcases.

Pro Tip: Eat lunch before 11:30 a.m. to skip long food lines during peak hours.

Who is Strawberry Festival Tampa Best For?

• Families: The Strawberry Festival Tampa is great for kids with exhibits, youth contests, and the Kiddie Korral.
• Couples: It’s ideal for a fun spring date with concerts and sweet treats.
• Groups: Reserve tickets together and use festival maps to meet up easily.

How Long to Spend at Strawberry Festival Tampa

• Typical Visit: 4–5 hours for exhibits, shows, and food.
• Express Route: Head straight to your favorite concert, grab shortcake, and browse Neighborhood Village.
• Full Experience: Spend a full day with breaks between rides, shows, and food spots.

Pro Tip: Mid-afternoon is quietest for strolling exhibits while rides stay busy until late.

Food & Drinks

Onsite Dining Options

• Vendors: Expect festival fare like BBQ, strawberry pizza, Amish donuts, funnel cakes, and more. 
• Alcohol Policy: Alcohol is not widely sold; this is a family-focused event.

Dietary & Nearby Dining

• Dietary Restrictions: Limited dietary-specific vendors, but veggie options are scattered. Nearby Restaurants: Head to Fred’s Market and Strawberry Hut Sandwich Shop for hearty post-fair meals.

Pro Tip: Get the strawberry shortcake at the St. Clement’s booth—it’s a local legend.

Frequently Asked Questions

Know Before You Go

Essential Rules & Policies

• Bag Policy: No specific rules posted, but large coolers and glass containers discouraged.
• Re-entry: Yes, with a handstamp.
• Pets: Service animals only.
• Payment: Most vendors accept cash and major cards, some prefer cash.

Accessibility & Convenience

• Strollers: Allowed; terrain is mostly paved and stroller-friendly.
• Wheelchair Access: All major areas are wheelchair accessible; ADA concert seating available by phone.
• Sensory Notes: Loud music near concert areas and bright lights in the midway.

Weather & What to Wear

• Rain Policy: Rain or shine event—no refunds for weather.
• Comfort: Wear comfy shoes and bring sun protection; layers are smart for late nights.

Final Take: Is the Strawberry Festival Tampa Worth It?

Absolutely. It’s a beloved Central Florida tradition combining music, agriculture, and small-town charm.

Top Reasons to Go:

• The Variety: Livestock shows, baking contests, crafts, and live music across all genres.
• The Food: You haven’t lived until you’ve had deep-fried strawberry shortcake.
• The Vibe: Americana nostalgia meets Florida sunshine and berry goodness.

Don’t Miss Out: Concerts like Lauren Daigle and Riley Green sell out early. Gate admission is cheaper at Publix, but prices jump once the event starts.

Turn It Into a Weekend: Book early to grab the best concert seats and beat the crowds. Lock in savings with our vacation packages and explore our deals on hotels and attractions. Don’t miss your chance to taste, dance, and celebrate all things strawberry!