The 2012 Florida Strawberry Festival's Grand Parade in Photos

Jeannie Elliott held no expectations for the Florida Strawberry Festival when she moved to Plant City from St. Louis.

What she soon discovered, she said, after attending her first festival three years ago, "is that it was an added bonus on top of an already wonderful living environment."

Elliott made her remarks March 5, before the start of the 2012 Florida Strawberry Festival's Grand Parade.

The parade marched through the streets of downtown Plant City and before the festival fairgrounds.

"This is a great parade," Elliott said. "A wonderful opportunity for the youth of the community to get involved and for our local political representatives to connect."

Indeed, politicians and marching bands were plentiful at the parade, with musicians from Brandon, Bloomingdale, Durant, Plant City and Strawberry Crest high schools included in the mix. Also in step were bands from Mulberry and Lakeland.

"I've been to the Strawberry Festival ever since I've lived here," said Durant Leo Club member Logan Merriwether, dressed as a clown for the day's festivities. ""I love it. It's always great to see everyone come out, to see the diversity, the commitment of different cultures."

Shawn Coolman, a U.S. Marine, said he came from Orlando with fellow soldier to pay back the community for its support.

"It's a good time to get out in front of the people," Coolman said. "Through the year they show us a lot of support and we want to show our support for them."