By Kennedy Gilbert
PLANT CITY, Fla.– Fox Squirrel Corn Maze is the fall event of the season. It is so much more than just a corn maze; every activity imaginable is here for anyone to enjoy. The grounds are shaded by large oaks that cover the property, which helps keep the blazing Florida heat away.
The Maze is located in Plant City, Florida, on Varn Road and is open from Sept. 28 to Oct. 27 on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m to 5 p.m.
The location has moved from its original spot.
“This is our third year doing it here at this location in Plant City, but previously it was around for 10 years at another location,” said Lisa Stewart, the event coordinator for Fox Squirrel Corn Maze.
The Futch family are the previous owners, eventually selling the rights of the business over to James Varn, who has taken over since. The Varn Road, where the corn maze is located, is James Varn’s family name.
“We are a very traditional fall family festival, we don’t do anything super Halloween or spooky. A lot of the people drive just to do the corn mazes, some people are really into timing themselves, videoing, just very into that aspect,” Stewart said.
However, that is just one of the many aspects. There are hayrides, live animals (including camel rides), multiple vendors, and food stands featuring BBQ, funnel cakes, and kettle corn; there are also swings, a pumpkin patch, jump pads, and more — the list is endless.
Stewart said the best part is that it feels like fall.
“We try to bring the fall vibes with the way the corn mazes and apple orchards are up North, we are always looking for that inspiration to bring that to Florida,” said Stewart.
For all of the Floridians searching high and low to get a taste of autumn, this is the place for you.
“We see about 1,000 people a day on a nice day when the weather is nice. The weather is such a huge factor with these outdoor events,” Stewart said.
James Varn is the owner of Fox Squirrel Corn Maze. His main aspiration for the event is to keep it growing. He puts an extensive amount of work into the event every year, from adding air-conditioned bathrooms to acquiring electricity for everything outside.
“Every year I try to put something new or switch it up, I don’t want the same boring thing. I want to be able to talk to people and see if there’s something I can help them with and see what I can do,” said Varn.
Hundreds of people filled the festival, with a diverse mix of people walking around. People of all ages were present. On this particular day, many families with children were out and about.
“I’m just visiting. It’s my first time here but I think it’s great. So far the best part has been the camel ride. I’m from Arkansas, but if I ever come back to Florida, I’ll be back here,” said Katie Garret, an attendee.
One of the vendors, Smitty’s Hand-Dipped Buttermilk Corn Dogs, is famous for its fresh and delicious food, especially the corn dogs. Janet Smitt and her husband are the owners of the business.
“We live here in Plant City, and the business started with our family. It’s been in our family for 40+ years,” said Smitt. “Pops started the recipe himself, it’s a secret, only three people know it.”
Smitt also makes one solid promise, “It’s the best corn dog you will ever eat.”
Smitty’s has quite the reputation.
“We’ve been at the Strawberry Festival, but we’ve been here since it started,” said Smitt.
Smitt said, “I want to also give credit to God because without him we would have nothing.”
Anyone seeking to welcome the fall season with open arms visit Fox Squirrel Corn Maze. They will be ready to greet visitors warmly.