A Taste of Tradition: Parksdale Farm Market's Strawberry Symphony
If you're wondering why the buzz about Parksdale Farm Market reached my ears, blame it on the relentless recommendations from friends who've either migrated to Lakeland. Their chatter about this market piqued my interest, particularly when they emphasized its exclusivity – open only from January to April, the coveted strawberry season.
The decision to make a 30-minute trip to Plant City wasn't driven by a sudden burst of wanderlust but rather the pragmatic realization that Parksdale was now open for the season. Social media played its part, bombarding me with posts showcasing the market's offerings. This year, I succumbed to the collective enthusiasm and embarked on a trip to unravel the mysteries behind Parksdale Farm Market.
So, forget the whimsical tales of strawberry bliss; this is a journey dictated by a narrow seasonal window and fueled by the promise of fresh produce. Join me in a factual exploration as we dissect the reasons behind Parksdale's popularity and assess whether the journey from Lakeland is indeed worth the hype.
Navigating from South Lakeland to Parksdale Farm Market is a straightforward affair. Living on the south side, I had the option to drive through the rural countryside, exclusively sticking to the comforting embrace of back roads. Alternatively, for those in a hurry, I-4 presented itself as a quicker conduit … depending on traffic as most locals know.
Upon our arrival at Parksdale Farm Market, the unassuming exterior of the building belied the vibrant energy within. A lively congregation of people stood in queues, eagerly anticipating their turn to indulge in the market's famed strawberry shortcake. Despite the humble façade, the promise of delectable treats had drawn a considerable crowd.
Inside, the market buzzed with activity, orchestrating a symphony of two queues. One, a testament to the sweet tooth's delight, snaked its way toward strawberry-infused desserts. The other, a more practical line, catered to those seeking fresh produce and distinctive gifts. The queues, though lengthy, moved with impressive efficiency.
The ambiance was a blend of organized chaos and excitement. The market thoughtfully provided a separate seating area, strategically shaded and adorned with an abundance of greenery. The surroundings were a delightful tapestry of luscious plants and historic memorabilia from Parksdale and Plant City, creating a charming backdrop for visitors to savor their strawberry treats. For those feeling a bit regal, the iconic Parksdale Strawberry Throne offered a whimsical spot to take a seat and bask in the strawberry-filled ambiance.
While strawberries took center stage, Parksdale Farm Market is no one-trick pony. The market unfolds a cornucopia of offerings, extending beyond the berry domain. From an array of fresh produce to vibrant plants and local gifts, the market caters to a diverse audience seeking a slice of Plant City's agricultural richness.
As we perused the aisles, the variety of offerings caught our attention. Given Plant City's reputation as a strawberry haven, the market boasted an impressive collection of everything strawberry-related that one could imagine. The shelves were adorned with strawberry-infused delights, capturing the essence of the region's famed fruit. It was a sensory journey through the heart of Plant City's agricultural bounty.
As I sank my teeth into the first bite of Parksdale Farm Market's strawberry shortcake and savored the initial sip of the strawberry milkshake, I was catapulted into a realm of pure strawberry bliss. It became glaringly obvious why this culinary duo had become a must-stop destination in Plant City. These moments, marked by the marriage of fresh strawberries and expert craftsmanship, lingered on my taste buds, etching Parksdale's culinary prowess into my memory.
Beyond the delectable treats, my journey through Parksdale unearthed a rich tapestry of history and culture. The legacy, now known as Parkesdale Farms, traces its roots back to the emigration of company founder R.E. (Roy) Parke, Jr. from Northern Ireland to Pennsylvania in 1924. Roy's family carried on their farming legacy in America, eventually settling in Plant City, Florida, in 1956 – a region renowned for its ideal conditions for growing winter vegetables and strawberries.
The first 10 acres of Parkesdale's strawberry crops were planted, marking the inception of what would become a thriving agricultural enterprise. Roy and his family, driven by a strong work ethic and a deep understanding of agricultural and business practices, expanded the farm into hundreds of acres, cultivating the finest strawberries, citrus, and vegetables in the country. The family's commitment extended to plant nurseries with extensive greenhouses, producing over a million vegetables and flowering plants annually, shipped nationwide.
In February 1969, Roy's daughter Cheryl and her husband Jim Meeks opened the beloved Parkesdale Farm Market, initially a small farm market that has since grown into the largest Strawberry, Citrus, and Produce Market in Florida. The legacy continued to flourish as Cheryl and Jim's son, Jim Meeks, and his wife Xiomara Meeks, joined the market in September 2007. For three generations, the Meeks family has been dedicated to growing and gifting only the most choice selection of fresh citrus, strawberries, plants, seasonings, and produce.
Parkesdale's success is a culmination of exceptional climate, enriched soil conditions, warm Florida sunshine, hard work, and a proprietary crop-growing approach. This commitment to quality has propelled Parkesdale into the hearts of customers nationwide, with gourmet products shipping across the USA and swiftly selling out. The story of Parkesdale Farm Market is not just one of delectable treats but a testament to the enduring legacy of a family devoted to cultivating the finest in Florida's agricultural bounty.
Would I recommend Parksdale?
Without a shadow of doubt – YES! If you find yourself in Lakeland or Central Florida, embarking on a journey to Parksdale Farm Market is a stellar way to celebrate the strawberry season and inject a dash of uniqueness into your routine. This market is a quintessential stop on your Plant City tour, an ode to the fruitful charm that defines this region.
For those contemplating a similar escapade, heed this nugget of wisdom: timing is key. To avoid the hustle and bustle of the late morning and lunchtime crowds, plan your visit during off-peak hours. Whether you opt for the serene ambiance of early morning exploration or the late-afternoon tranquility, arriving during non-peak times ensures a more leisurely and enjoyable experience.
In a word – incredible. Parksdale Farm Market delivered an experience that resonated with the locals' fervor, offering a delightful escape into the heart of strawberry paradise. It stands as a testament to the culinary and agricultural legacy woven into the fabric of Plant City. This visit provided the perfect avenue to satiate strawberry cravings without braving the bustling crowds of the annual Strawberry Festival.
An afternoon at Parksdale Farm Market was nothing short of a great escape. From savoring the iconic treats to unraveling the rich history of the Meeks family's agricultural dynasty, every moment was steeped in the essence of Plant City's vibrant charm. So, if you're seeking a delightful afternoon adventure and a generous serving of strawberries, Parksdale awaits with open arms. Here's to strawberry-infused memories and the joy of exploring neighboring towns – a journey well worth the drive!