Georgia Strawberry Festival happening this weekend in Reynolds

The festival begins April 24 with a gospel music concert and picnic at Julian Knight Park starting at 6 p.m.

REYNOLDS, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The 28th annual Georgia Strawberry Festival will bring two days of events to Reynolds this weekend, featuring a Friday night kickoff and a full lineup of activities Saturday expected to draw crowds from across Middle Georgia.

The festival begins April 24 with a gospel music concert and picnic at Julian Knight Park starting at 6 p.m. The event will take place between the churches at Georgia Highway 96 and Georgia Highway 128.

Organizers say the concert will feature The Dixie Echoes, with Megan Fowler opening. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs. Concessions will also begin at 6 p.m., including barbecue plates prepared by the Reynolds Fire Department and strawberry shortcake provided by the church.

Festival activities continue April 25 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in downtown Reynolds, with free admission.

Organizers say the event will include a 5K race, local vendors, a parade at 10 a.m. and a variety of contests and activities throughout the day. Featured events include a strawberry shortcake eating contest, a spelling bee, a fire truck pull, a strawberry fashion show and a weenie dog race.

Additional events include the Georgia Strawberry Tee Off, a two-person scramble golf tournament with prizes.

Children’s activities will be available throughout the day, along with a strawberry patch offering strawberry picking and ice cream.

Live entertainment will take place at the main gazebo, featuring performances by Creature Feature, Hickory Roots and Where’s Barrow.

The Georgia Strawberry Parade will offer a $500 grand prize for the best float. Organizers are encouraging participants to showcase their creativity, noting that parade entry is free. Additional prizes include a $50 kids bike award and a $50 pet costume award. Winners will be announced at the Julian Knight Park gazebo immediately following the parade.

The Georgia Strawberry Festival is held annually on the fourth Saturday in April and highlights local agriculture, small businesses and community traditions in Taylor County.