Ovid’s sweetest summer tradition returns on Saturday, June 14, as the 39th Annual Ovid Strawberry Festival takes over southern Seneca County with a packed schedule of food, music, games, and family-friendly fun—all while honoring the Ovid Fire Department.
The day begins bright and early with a Pancake Breakfast at the Ovid Federated Church from 7 to 10 a.m., where attendees can enjoy pancakes, eggs, sausage, and fresh strawberries. At 8 a.m., the festival’s 5K run and walk kicks off at the Ovid Fire Department, with same-day registration available starting at 7 a.m.
At 10 a.m., the main parade will step off from South Seneca High School, featuring more than 40 community groups, first responders, local businesses, and classic vehicles as it winds down Main Street toward the fire department.
Throughout the day, the firehouse and adjacent Village Park will host craft vendors, food trucks, community organizations, and activities including an inflatable obstacle course, cake wheel, and games led by local Girl Scout troops. Food will be available from favorites like Silo Truck Fries, Between the Lakes BBQ, Silver Street Kettle Corn, and Cayuga Lake Creamery. Chicken BBQ will be served starting at 11 a.m. at the former Firehouse Distillery.
Entertainment will take place at the Village Pavilion beginning with South Seneca Music groups at 11 a.m., followed by a community Talent Showcase. Edith B. Ford Memorial Library will offer book sales, games, and summer reading sign-ups, with a silly string war planned for 1 p.m.
At 1:30 p.m., the popular Strawberry Bake-Off will begin, featuring jams, jellies, and desserts from kids and adults alike. Raffle winners will be drawn at 3 p.m. to help fund next year’s 40th anniversary festival.
The celebration wraps up with the Ovid Fire Department’s Post-Fest Fundraiser at the VFW Post 6200 from 3 to 10 p.m. The event includes live music by Stone Cold Sober and Ruby Shooz, a cornhole tournament, a cash bar, food trucks, and raffles. Proceeds will support both the department and 2nd Assistant Chief Brian Reynolds, who is currently undergoing cancer treatment.
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