Fruitland Park Day: Founder's Day Celebration
Join neighbors, local businesses, community organizations, and visitors for the annual Fruitland Park Day celebration.
This signature community event includes a hometown parade, barbecue cook-off, food trucks, vendors, children’s activities, games, entertainment, and opportunities to celebrate everything that makes Fruitland Park special.
Event Details
Date: April 3rd, 2027
Event time: 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Parade start: 10:00 AM
Location: City Hall Complex Fruitland Park
Detailed event locations, parking instructions, road closures, and activity maps will be announced before the event.
Fruitland Park Day Parade
The celebration begins with the annual Fruitland Park Day Parade at 10:00 AM.
Community groups, schools, churches, businesses, sports teams, dance groups, marching groups, public-safety agencies, clubs, and other organizations are invited to participate.
Parade entry fee: Free
Advance registration is required. Registration information will be provided Parade lineup numbers and arrival instructions will be provided to approved participants during the week of the event.
Barbecue Cook-Off
Local barbecue teams are invited to compete in the annual Fruitland Park Day BBQ Cook-Off.
Estimated team registration fee: $50 per team
Judging and tasting time: 11:30 AM–1:30 PM
Tasting wristband: $5
Guests who purchase a tasting wristband may sample entries during the designated public-tasting period.
Competition categories, rules, setup requirements, judging procedures, and prize information will be included in the official cook-off packet.
Activities and Entertainment
Fruitland Park Day activities are expected to include:
- Community parade
- Barbecue competition and tasting
- Food trucks
- Merchandise and informational vendors
- Bounce houses
- Laser tag
- Children’s games
- Live entertainment
- Community organization booths
- Family-friendly activities
Activities may change as the event schedule is finalized.
Vendor Information
Businesses, nonprofit organizations, community groups, artisans, and food vendors are invited to participate.
Estimated vendor fee: $30 per 10-foot-by-10-foot space
Vendors requiring more than one space must reserve enough spaces to accommodate their full setup. A late-registration fee may apply after the regular deadline.
Setup instructions and the event layout will be sent to approved vendors during the week of the event.
Parking and Road Closures
Temporary road closures will be required for the parade and portions of the event. Parking maps, parade routes, closures, and accessibility information will be posted before the event.
Guests should follow instructions from City staff, law enforcement, and event volunteers.
Questions?
For information about the parade, barbecue competition, vendor registration, sponsorships, or general event activities, contact:
Fruitland Park Parks & Recreation Department
Phone: 352-360-6734