A Texas Food Lover's Guide to the Poteet Strawberry Festival

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The 76th Annual Poteet Strawberry Festival, located in Poteet, Texas, is the perfect event for any food-lover’s taste buds. Running from April 14-16 of 2023, this festival hosts an array of eclectic cuisines and activities! 

If you're a Texas food lover with a penchant for all things strawberry, the Poteet Strawberry Festival is the place to be. Spread across an expansive 100-acre land, this vibrant and lively event promises a memorable experience as you indulge in the sweet, juicy goodness of freshly harvested strawberries in various forms. There's nothing quite like the sweet taste of Poteet strawberries, and the Poteet Strawberry Festival has been celebrating this delectable fruit for over 76 years! 



What is the Poteet Strawberry Festival?

Driven by passionate volunteers and focused on supporting their local community, this beloved event in South Texas has grown into much more than just a celebration of strawberries. In addition to promoting the increasingly rare Poteet strawberry, the festival's proceeds fund vital scholarships for the youth of Poteet, making education more accessible and enriching the lives of young people. 

Injecting between $10 and $12 million directly into the South Texas economy, the annual berry fest has evolved into a crucial economic engine for Atascosa County and its residents. And with its growing reputation, the Poteet Strawberry Festival has become a must-visit tourist attraction for those living in and visiting the Lone Star State, and even draws visitors from across the southwest United States. 

Don't miss out on this unforgettable experience, a celebration of fruitful flavors, community spirit, and Texas pride!

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History of the Poteet Strawberry Festival

With a rich history dating back to 1948, this festival was initially created by the Poteet Rotary Club as an effort to encourage World War II veterans to return to the farms and re-immerse themselves in agricultural life. 

The founders of this iconic festival were not only concerned about supporting the veterans, but also aimed to improve the quality and consistency of strawberries sold in the market. They envisioned a scrumptious, uniform pint, flat, or crate of strawberries that would impress everyone who tasted it. 

Today, the Poteet Strawberry Festival has grown to become a beloved and iconic event, celebrating not only the delicious berry but also the spirit of the community that comes together to ensure its success year after year. 

So, if you're looking for an unforgettable experience that combines history, culture, and mouth-watering food, make sure to add the Poteet Strawberry Festival to your calendar!

Looking for something to do in Poteet? Whether you're a local, new in town or just cruising through we've got loads of great tips and local food events.

What to Expect When You Attend the Festival

The Poteet Strawberry Festival is a paradise for every Texan food lover, packed with an incredible assortment of mouth-watering local delicacies, especially those featuring the region's most famous produce - strawberries!

As you attend this vibrant celebration in April, you can expect much more than just food – this event truly offers something for everyone in the family. 

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Ticket Prices

With an incredibly low admission fee of only $20 and $10 for Friday, young families are flocking to the festival in droves since children under 12 get in free. What's more, military personnel - including active, reserve, national guard, and retired members with valid ID,- can enjoy all these amazing attractions for free. 

Parking

While parking is a breeze with a flat fee of $10 per vehicle, be sure to make the most out of your time as there are no in/out parking options or exemptions.

Concerts

Prepare to be thrilled by 14 areas bursting with continuous entertainment, encompassing a wide array of exhilarating concerts headlined by nationally renowned Country Western and Tejano music stars, as well as dynamic performances by regional bands.

Shows and Competitions

The excitement doesn't end there, as you'll also find lively gunslingers showcasing their remarkable skills, an enchanting carnival that keeps the spirits high, and a diverse range of contests to test your mettle. Plus, rodeo enthusiasts won't be disappointed, as the festival features enthralling competitions that are guaranteed to make your heart race.

Ultimately, the Poteet Strawberry Festival offers an unforgettable, action-packed experience for the whole family to cherish!

Taste of Texas Food Show

The Poteet Strawberry Festival is a true gem for food enthusiasts in Texas, especially with the Taste of Texas Food Show on April 16, 2023, during its 76th annual celebration. 

This year, the festival is shifting gears to focus on the budding talents of young chefs and bakers, making it an exciting opportunity for ambitious youths to showcase their culinary skills. Not only will these talented individuals get the chance to dazzle attendees with their delectable creations, but they will also have the opportunity to sell their items at the auction and even apply for scholarships. 

This refreshed focus further enriches the festival, ensuring that the Poteet Strawberry Festival remains a vibrant and engaging event for food lovers throughout the Lone Star State. 

Poteet Strawberry Pie Recipe

So, mark your calendars and prepare your taste buds for an unforgettable culinary journey at this year's Poteet Strawberry Festival.

Poteet strawberry pie is a delicious treat enjoyed by many. Making this delectable treat, however, requires quality ingredients and detailed steps. Check out TexasRealFood’s Poteet Strawberry Pie Recipe and learn how to make this iconic pie at home.

Poteet Strawberry Festival Parade

This event-filled weekend begins with an exhilarating annual parade showcasing an array of entries from around the state and even the country. A feast for the eyes, the parade is a vibrant display of pageantry, music, and entertainment, paving the way for the gastronomic delights that await within the festival grounds. 

The parade's winding route commences at the corner of FM 1470 and School Drive, successfully navigating the roads and streets of Poteet to enchant onlookers of all ages. What better way to kick off this culinary adventure than by immersing yourself in the spirited-festivities that the Poteet Strawberry Festival Parade so generously offers?

Where to Stay When Visiting the Poteet Strawberry Festival

The Poteet Strawberry Festival, held annually in the charming town of Poteet, Texas, is a must-attend event for food lovers seeking a taste of the finest and most scrumptious strawberries around. When visiting this delightful celebration of all things strawberry, you'll want to find the perfect spot to rest and recharge after indulging in the festival's delicious offerings. 

Some of the top lodging options during your visit include quaint country cottages, idyllic bed and breakfasts, and even rustic Airbnb rentals nestled amongst picturesque Texan landscapes. You can also explore numerous neighboring towns, such as Pleasanton or San Antonio, for a vast selection of hotels and accommodations to suit any budget or preference. 

As you embrace the lively atmosphere and rich culinary experiences of the Poteet Strawberry Festival, rest assured you'll be able to find a comfortable and relaxing place to stay nearby to make your visit an unforgettable one.

Brush Country Lodge

7.8 miles from Poteet Strawberry Festival

Located just a short distance away in the charming town of Pleasanton, this 2.5-star, no-frills motel offers a comfortable and cozy retreat for festival-goers. The affordable accommodations give you a place to kick back and relax after a long day of enjoying the mouthwatering culinary treats at the festival, while also enabling you to easily access some fantastic local restaurants, shops, and attractions. With friendly staff and comfortable amenities, your stay at the Brush Country Lodge will ensure a memorable and enjoyable experience as you fully savor the mouthwatering delights of the Poteet Strawberry Festival.

Hampton Inn Pleasanton

8.2 miles from Poteet Strawberry Festival

As you plan your visit to the gorgeous town of Poteet, finding the perfect accommodation is essential to make the most of your experience. Nestled in the heart of Pleasanton, just a short drive away from the festival, the 2.5-star Hampton Inn Pleasanton is the perfect haven for any food enthusiast. With a no-frills approach, this lovely hotel features cozy rooms, an inviting outdoor pool to relax in after a day of strawberry indulgence, and free WiFi to stay connected with loved ones. More importantly, begin each day of your Poteet adventures with a delicious, complimentary buffet breakfast to fuel you for all the strawberry-flavored excitement that awaits. Plus, with free parking on-site, you can conveniently explore the surrounding areas at your leisure. Don't miss out on this fantastic lodging opportunity while embarking on your unforgettable Texas food journey at the Poteet Strawberry Festival!

Embassy Suites by Hilton San Antonio Brooks Hotel & Spa

22.9 miles from Poteet Strawberry Festival

Indulge yourself in the warm hospitality and contemporary comforts of the Embassy Suites by Hilton San Antonio Brooks Hotel & Spa. This 3.5-star aparthotel, nestled in the vibrant Southside area of the city, boasts a luxurious spa and inviting outdoor pool. Start your day with a delectable and complimentary buffet breakfast before taking a short trip to the heart of the Poteet Strawberry Festival. Don't worry if you need to stay connected to the outside world, as the hotel offers free WiFi and parking for all guests. Experience the bliss of a carefree Texas getaway when you stay at the Embassy Suites by Hilton San Antonio Brooks Hotel & Spa during the Poteet Strawberry Festival.

Summary

With so much to do and explore, the Poteet Strawberry Festival offers something for guests of all ages. From fun activities like hay rides and strawberry picking to competitive eating contests, outdoor movies and unique cuisines, it's easy to see why the Poteet Strawberry Festival is truly one-of-a-kind. The annual event draws over 150,000 visitors annually, making it the perfect place to experience local flavors and immerse yourself in history that spans over three generations. 

So mark your calendars—the 76th Annual Poteet Strawberry Festival takes place April 14-16 of 2023. Don't miss out on this flavorful opportunity–come join us for a taste of Southwest Texas you won't soon forget!

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