A popular strawberry festival that is returning to Marion County this weekend for its 11th annual installment will bring with it a petting zoo, a car show, a BMX stunt show, and a strawberry pie-eating contest.
The festival, which is hosted by Habitat for Humanity of Marion County, will be held on Saturday, March 1, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the McPherson Governmental Complex, which is located at 601 SE 25th Avenue in Ocala.
Festival attendees will be able to purchase fresh strawberries and other tasty strawberry treats from Plant City farmers. There will also be many unique vendors in attendance, including many nonprofit organizations.
The event will also provide a variety of family-friendly entertainment including a kid’s zone and petting zoo; a “bigger-than-ever” auto show featuring cars, trucks, and motorcycles; a BMX stunt show; a strawberry pie eating contest; and more.
Admission to the Strawberry Festival is free, and the event is open to the public. All proceeds raised at the festival will be used to build a new home – called the Strawberry House – which will be for low-income families with an affordable mortgage, according to Habitat for Humanity of Marion County.
Over 700 volunteers will be donating their time, efforts, and knowledge throughout this year’s festival. Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer can sign up, or contact Habitat for Humanity of Marion County’s Volunteer Department via phone (352-351-4663).
For more information, visit the Habitat Ocala Strawberry Festival website.