Spring and summer are filled with farmers’ markets and flowers, while fall presents opportunities to pick out pumpkins and enjoy delicious apple-based treats. Don’t forget to stop by in December, when communities still deck the halls, even though many visitors are escaping harsh winter temperatures in favor of tropical weather.
Here are a few annual events to build your visit around.
Brown & Brown Farms, located in Oxford, hosts several events throughout the year. Visit in the spring for U-Pick strawberries, or enjoy Vintage At The Farm with a Wild West gun show. Brown & Brown Farms is also known for its Fall Festival, which features fireworks every Friday night. If you stay through October, enjoy Halloween at the Farm, which includes a 12-acre corn maze. There’s always something going on!
Farm City Week has been an essential part of Sumter County, and a great opportunity for visitors to learn about this part of Florida. It usually runs through late November, and is packed with activities. Learn about the value of agriculture and the hard work that farmers put into creating food. This is both a fun and educational opportunity for families.
October is a wonderful time to visit the City of Bushnell. During the Fall Festival, adults can participate in hatchet axe throwing, while kids enjoy games, crafts, and other fall activities. There’s even a hay bale decorating contest! Several local businesses participate in this event, offering food or activities to attendees. This is a wonderful way to connect with the people of Bushnell, and “fall” in love with Sumter County.
Visit Sumter County in early January, to attend the Dade Battle Reenactment weekend. This event recreates the Dade Massacre, which occurred on December 28, 1835. You can see period soldiers from that era, and learn about the culture and attire of Seminole Indians. There is a full-scale cannon firing and an active battle reenactment.
This is designed to be a family-friendly event. There are historic arts and crafts, games for kids, and delicious food. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own chairs. Visit the Dade Battlefield Society for more information.
There’s never a bad time to visit Sumter County, and you can enjoy countless events and local festivals throughout the year.
There are more than 100 different restaurants to choose from in Sumter County! Strawberry season in Florida peaks in February and March. Farmers markets in Florida run through the fall and winter because of the temperate weather. There’s never a bad time in Sumter County to enjoy fresh produce!
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