Strawberry Festival to mark 14th year
Though not as large as the famed festival in Plant City, Cape Coral’s own Strawberry Festival returns for a 14th year of family fun and entertainment.
Held at Diplomat Wesleyan Church, the strawberry-themed event features free admission, live music, a pancake breakfast and, of course, strawberries.
“Fourteen years ago there wasn’t much here, especially in the north Cape,” spokeswoman Dorothy Coates said of the festival’s durability over the years. “It’s just something the community has enjoyed, and every year it gives us a chance to meet new people.”
She said the event continually draws the same children and their families over the years. Those who started going when they were small have grown up, and an entirely new generation of children has been discovering the festival.
“You get an almost entirely new generation. All the kids that were tiny are in high school now,” Coates said. “Many wouldn’t miss it, they have so much fun.”
Keeping with the local spirit of the festival, strawberries available for purchase are grown in Lee County, with most of the delicious berries coming from Arcadia.
Vendors will sell their wares, and community organizations like the Cape Caring Center, Hope Hospice and Lifeline Family Center will be on hand to educate the public about their particular services.
Of course, the festival is really aimed at the children, as bounce houses, face painting and tasty delectables light up kids’ eyes, and their bellies, each year.
For those who have never experienced the Strawberry Festival, Coates encourages people to come out, meet their neighbors and take part in a Cape community tradition.
“We hope everybody comes and feels at home and finds a new friend,” she said.
The pancake breakfast starts at 8 a.m., with the event running from 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
Coates is hoping attendees will bring a can of non-perishable food to donate to the Cape Caring Center. For more information, contact Coates at 656-4424.