Winter is one of the best times of year to explore Zephyrhills, Dade City, and Pasco County, Florida. With cooler temperatures, outdoor festivals, and a full calendar of community events, winter offers the perfect mix of local charm and outdoor fun.
Whether you’re a longtime resident, seasonal visitor, or considering a move to the area, this 2026 Winter Festival Guide highlights the top winter events, fairs, markets, and activities happening across Pasco County.
Why Winter Is the Best Time to Visit Pasco County
Florida winters bring comfortable temperatures and low humidity, making it easy to enjoy outdoor events and explore local communities without the summer heat.
Winter in Pasco County is ideal for:
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Outdoor festivals and fairs
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Farmers markets and downtown events
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Exploring parks, trails, and small towns
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Family-friendly activities and seasonal celebrations
This time of year showcases the lifestyle that makes Pasco County so appealing.
Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival
📅 Saturday, February 28, 2026
📍 Downtown Zephyrhills
The Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival is one of the most popular winter events in Zephyrhills and a highlight of the East Pasco event calendar.
This community favorite features:
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Award-winning BBQ vendors
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Live blues music throughout the day
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Kid-friendly activities and games
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Local businesses, artisans, and food trucks
Held in downtown Zephyrhills, this festival attracts visitors from across Pasco County and is a great way to experience the area’s small-town atmosphere.
Dade City Kumquat Festival
📅 Saturday, January 31, 2026
📍 Downtown Dade City
The Dade City Kumquat Festival is one of Pasco County’s most iconic annual events. Celebrating the region’s signature fruit, this festival transforms downtown Dade City into a vibrant destination for food, shopping, and entertainment.
Festival highlights include:
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Kumquat-inspired foods and desserts
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Arts, crafts, and local vendors
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Live music and entertainment
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A classic “Old Florida” downtown setting
This event is especially popular with families and visitors exploring East Pasco during the winter season.
Pasco County Fair
📅 February 16–22, 2026
📍 Pasco County Fairgrounds, Dade City
The Pasco County Fair is a winter tradition that draws crowds from throughout the region. Held each February in Dade City, the fair offers a full week of entertainment and activities.
What you’ll find at the fair:
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Carnival rides and midway games
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Agricultural exhibits and competitions
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Live shows, food vendors, and family attractions
It’s one of the largest winter events in Pasco County and a must-visit for locals and visitors alike.
Farmers Markets & Local Shopping in Winter
Cooler weather makes winter the perfect time to explore Pasco County’s farmers markets and outdoor shopping areas.
Historic Downtown Dade City Farmers Market
A seasonal favorite featuring:
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Fresh produce and locally made goods
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Baked items, honey, plants, and artisan products
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A walkable downtown atmosphere
The Fancy Flea: Winter Vintage Market in Downtown Zephyrhills
📅 Saturday, February 7, 2026
📍 Downtown Zephyrhills
Glide ever so gracefully into downtown Zephyrhills for one of winter’s most charming shopping events — The Fancy Flea.
This curated vintage market is a favorite for shoppers looking for unique finds, seasonal décor, and one-of-a-kind pieces you won’t find in big-box stores. The first show of 2026 brings together dynamic vendor duos and creative displays — including stunning swan planters perfect for refreshing your spring décor.
What you’ll find at The Fancy Flea:
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Vintage, shabby chic, and cottage-core décor
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Repurposed furniture and handmade goods
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Spring decorating inspiration
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A walkable, downtown shopping experience
Held in the heart of downtown Zephyrhills, The Fancy Flea pairs perfectly with a winter day spent exploring local cafés, shops, and nearby parks.
Academy at the Farm Market (Dade City)
Known for:
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Farm-fresh produce and eggs
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Local vendors and small businesses
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A relaxed, community-focused setting
301 & 56 Flea Market (Zephyrhills)
A longtime local favorite offering:
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Antiques, collectibles, and unique finds
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A classic Florida flea market experience
Outdoor Places to Enjoy During Winter
Winter is also the best season to explore Pasco County’s parks and green spaces.
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Zephyr Park (Zephyrhills): Lake views, walking paths, and picnic areas
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Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park: Miles of trails and wildlife viewing
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Withlacoochee River Park: Scenic trails, biking, and river access
These outdoor areas are especially enjoyable during the winter months thanks to cooler temperatures and lower humidity.
Hidden Gems to Explore This Winter
If you’re looking to go beyond the festivals, add these local favorites to your winter plans:
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Giraffe Ranch (Dade City): A unique wildlife experience best enjoyed in cooler weather
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Downtown Dade City murals: Colorful spots for photos and casual strolls
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The Grove at Wesley Chapel: Outdoor dining, shopping, and live entertainment
Planning Your Winter Visit to Pasco County
Winter is the perfect time to experience the events, outdoor lifestyle, and community atmosphere that define Pasco County.
For updated event details and schedules:
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Visit VisitPasco.net
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Follow @ZephyrhillsMainStreet on social media
Whether you’re planning a weekend trip or exploring the area as a potential place to call home, winter in Zephyrhills and Pasco County offers something for everyone.
