It's that time of the year again.  On Thursday, March 1, the Florida Strawberry Festival will return to Plant City for 11 awesome days of thrilling rides, exciting games, headlining concerts, and tons of delicious food including fresh strawberries served up in everything from create your own strawberry shortcake to smoothies and more.

This year will mark the 77th anniversary of the Florida Strawberry Festival.  The iconic Tampa Bay festival is gearing up to be better than ever providing kids and adults of all ages with a host of entertainment and attractions from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day through March 11.

This year's live entertainment at the Florida Strawberry Festival will feature performances from country music stars including Hank Williams, Vince Gill, The Band Perry, Luke Bryan, Reba, Oak Ridge Boys, Gretchen Wilson, Gatlin Brothers with Crystal Gayle, Jake Owens, and more.

Concert tickets are not included in the price of admission and range from $15 to $50 depending on which act is performing.  Expect to pay more for bigger names like Hank Williams and Reba.

There will also be special discount days at the Strawberry Festival.  Students in Kindergarten through 12th grade in Hillsborough County can enjoy free admission on Saturday, March 3.

Monday, March 5 is Grand Parade Day where the Grand Parade passes by the Festival on Reynolds Street beginning at 1 p.m.  It's also Ride-A-Thon Day where guests can get unlimited access to most midway rides for $19.  For a full list of discount days, visit the Strawberry Festival Discount Days page.

Advance admission to the Strawberry Festival is $8 for adults and $4 for kids ages 6-12.  Advance tickets can be purchased through the Florida Strawberry Festival website or at participating Sweetbay stores.  Normal gate admission is $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 6-12.  Kids 5 and under get in free.

Rally up your friends and family and head out to the 2012 Florida Strawberry Festival in Plant City from March 1-11.