Visit Historic Duval-Metz House

We are excited to offer visitors the opportunity to step back in time and explore the rich history of the area with a tour of the historic Duval-Metz House. Located in Floral City, the Duval-Metz House stands as the oldest documented home in Citrus County, providing a glimpse into the area's past. The non-profit Duval Preservation Trust is restoring the building and gratefully welcomes any size donation made for the Tour. This two-story, porch-over-porch, wood frame house was built c. 1863 on one of the highest points in the area.

A large cistern is located on the Duval-Metz property and is one of only four cisterns remaining in the Nationally Registered Floral City Historic District. A hand-pump would have supplied water to the kitchen which originally was a separate building and only moved and attached to the main house later.

This Historic Duval-Metz House is located at 7801 Old Floral City Road, corner of CR48/Orange Avenue and across the street from the Floral City Heritage Museum in the Town Center.

Experience History with a Visit to the Duval-Metz House

During the festival weekend on Saturday, March 2nd, and Sunday, March 3rd, guests are invited to visit the Historic Duval-Metz House between 12pm and 4pm where they will be offering tours, and making homemade strawberry ice cream and strawberry lemonade for visitors. Situated just across the street from the Floral City Heritage Museum in the Town Center, the house offers a unique experience for history enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

Additionally, the Floral City Heritage Hall Museum and Museum "Country" Store will be open free of charge during the festival as well!

In addition to exploring the Duval-Metz House, festival-goers can take advantage of the vibrant atmosphere in downtown Floral City. With the beautiful Avenue of the Oaks and charming local shops, visitors can immerse themselves in the nostalgia of Old Florida while enjoying the festivities.

To make the most of their experience, attendees can catch the shuttle to downtown Floral City, which will be running from the festival grounds on both days.

The 37th Annual Floral City Strawberry Festival promises a weekend filled with fun activities and delicious treats. Admission is $5 for adults, while children 12 and under can enter for free. Free parking and shuttles to the festival grounds will be available on Saturday at the Citrus County Auditorium and on Sunday at the Citrus County Speedway.

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Festival Highlights:

In addition to visiting the Historic Duval-Metz House, guests can enjoy the Strawberry Princess Pageants on Saturday morning, pie eating contests on both Saturday and Sunday at 1pm, interactive entertainment with the Soccer Collies and Wildlife Walkabout and Activity Center, arts & craft vendors, delicious food vendors, incredible musical performances, fresh local berries from Ferris Groves, and, of course, mouthwatering shortcake – hailed as the most delicious on the Nature Coast!

For more information about the 37th Annual Floral City Strawberry Festival and all the exciting events planned, visit www.GoStrawberryFest.com.

Floral City Strawberry Festival at a Glance

When: Saturday, March 2, 9 am – 5 pm, and Sunday, March 3, 9 am – 4 pm
Where: Floral Park, 9530 S. Parkside Avenue, Floral City – 3 miles south of downtown Floral City on US Hwy 41
Cost: Festival Admission is $5 per adult, children 12 and under are free
Parking: SATURDAY at the Citrus County Auditorium located at 3610 S. Florida Ave, Inverness. SUNDAY at the Citrus County Speedway just north of the Auditorium. Free shuttle buses will be running all day, both days
Website: www.GoStrawberryFest.com
Facebook: Search for “Floral City Strawberry Festival”
Phone: 352-795-3149