Manatee County Fair & Strates Shows Kick Off Florida Fair Season
PALMETTO, FLORIDA – The Manatee County Fair & carnival amusement provider Strates Shows are kicking off fair season in the Sunshine State. Starting January 16th, the Manatee County Fair takes the spotlight as the FIRST of 45 agricultural fairs to be held in Florida during 2025. This year will also be the first season that the legendary James E. Strates Shows provides the carnival midway to the Fair.
"Being part of the Manatee County Fair is an honor as the Fair celebrates and highlights the community's rich agricultural traditions, diverse talents, and cultural heritage," said Marty Biniasz, Strates Shows Marketing Director. “Strates Shows is dedicated to providing a safe and exciting carnival midway experience, where families can relax, have fun, and create treasured memories to last a lifetime.”
For over a century, James E. Strates Shows has been a trusted name in the world of carnival midways, bringing world-class entertainment to fairs and festivals across Florida and the Eastern Seaboard. With a legacy of excellence, Strates Shows sets itself apart through a carefully curated blend of traditional charm and modern thrill.
Strates Shows is known for its state-of-the-art rides, where cutting-edge technology meets breathtaking excitement. From exhilarating roller coasters and towering Ferris wheels to family-friendly classics, Strates Shows offers a wide range of attractions designed to create unforgettable moments for all ages. The company's commitment to innovation keeps the experience fresh and exciting, while safety remains a top priority.
Strates Shows, a proud family-owned and operated business, is led by the third generation of the Strates family, including Jimmy, Jay, John, and Susan. Continuing the legacy, Nick Strates joined the show full-time in 2015 as part of the fourth generation, ensuring the tradition lives on.
The carnival midway at the Manatee County Fair will feature a collection of state-of-the-art carnival rides, games, and concessions. The lineup includes a dedicated Kiddieland for young children, along with midway favorites such as the “Claw,” “Dream Wheel,” and “Sky Flyer.”
The Manatee County Fair is considered the largest annual event in the Bradenton-Sarasota area. The 109th edition of the Fair opens on January 16 and continues through January 26, 2025 at the Fairgrounds in Palmetto. For Fair information visit www.manateecountyfair.com.
About the Strates Shows – Celebrating its 102nd year of operations in 2025, Strates Shows is a family-owned and operated outdoor amusement and carnival business with headquarters in Orlando, Florida. Founded in 1923 by Greek immigrant James E. Strates as the Southern Tier Shows in Elmira, New York, the Strates Shows is one of America’s premiere providers of carnival midways.