Cheap Fun: Seniors Save at The Strawberry Festival

The 76th Annual Florida Strawberry Festival has a full slate of entertainment, games, rides, attractions and vendors. And on Thursday, seniors can enjoy all of it at a discounted price.

The festival is known for its strawberries, and you can enjoy them in a milkshake, as part of strawberry shortcake, or just as they are.

There’s plenty of other food, too, from deep-fried Oreos to a pork chop on a stick to chocolate-covered bacon (seriously).

But in addition to eating, you’ll have the opportunity to visit a number of special exhibits featuring livestock, photography, art and plants. There’s even a demonstration of pioneer skills on display daily at Pioneer Village. You also don’t want to miss regular features like Rosaire’s Racing Pigs, with performances throughout the day that always attract laughs and cheers.

But the festival is also about games and rides, and there are plenty of both for those who want to test their skills and courage. A special section features rides for children, so they can join in on the fun as well.

There are concerts each day as well, with acts like Billy Ray Cyrus and George Jones performing for free (for those who get the limited general admission seats. Reserved seats are also available for purchase).

Vendors sell everything from candy to cowboy hats to wooden signs, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy throughout the day or evening.

On Thursday, seniors 60 and older will save $2 off the regular $10 admission. Children 6 to 12 are just $5, and visitors 5 and under are admitted free with a paid adult.

It’s a fun day for grandparents and grandchildren, a good way to save some money and a chance to enjoy one of our local annual events that help define the community. Plus, they have chocolate-covered bacon! You don’t want to miss that, do you?

The Florida Strawberry Festival runs until Sunday, March 13. For more information, call 813-752-9194 or visit www.flstrawberryfestival.com.