The Clewiston Sugar Festival traces its roots back to the original end-of-harvest celebrations hosted by the United States Sugar Corporation in the 1930s. Each year, after the final sugarcane was milled, the company marked the occasion with a day of appreciation and community spirit.

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In April, when the mill “went down” after grinding the last carload of cane, workers and their families gathered for a company barbecue. Tables were set, the mill was cleaned, and the day ended with a formal dance at the Sugarland Auditorium (now the John B. Boy Auditorium). That night, employees cast their votes to crown the King and Queen of Sugar.

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In 1986, members of the Clewiston Merchant Association revived the idea—this time as a city-wide event—to showcase the community and honor the sugar industry that serves as its economic foundation.

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Since then, the Sugar Festival has grown into a multi-day celebration where families, friends, and neighbors reunite. Visitors from across the Glades and beyond gather for live music, cane grinding, car shows, kids’ activities, and local food booths hosted by civic groups, schools, and churches. The lineup has expanded to include a rodeo celebrating Clewiston’s cowboy heritage, a bass tournament highlighting Lake Okeechobee, and Seminole Heritage Day at the Clewiston Museum, honoring the traditions of our Seminole neighbors.

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Today, the Sugar Festival is both historic and ever-growing—a true family tradition. We’re proud to share our heritage, our community, and our sweet way of life.

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