The Sweetest Town in America: Exploring Clewiston's Sugar History

Clewiston, Florida may not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a family vacation, but this small town holds a sweet surprise for visitors. Known as the "Sweetest Town in America", Clewiston has a rich history revolving around its sugar production. As a local, I am excited to share with you the sweet adventures that await in this charming town.

A Brief History of Clewiston
Clewiston's sugar history dates back to the 1920s when a group of entrepreneurs discovered the rich and fertile land surrounding Lake Okeechobee. They established a sugar plantation and the town quickly grew around it. The success of the sugar industry led to the development of Clewiston as a company town. Today, Clewiston Sugar Festival is held every year to celebrate this local industry.

Visit the Clewiston Museum
To truly understand the impact of the sugar industry on Clewiston, a visit to the Clewiston Museum is a must. The museum showcases artifacts and displays that tell the story of the town's development. From old photographs and maps to sugar processing equipment, you will get a glimpse of the early days of this quaint town. The museum is also home to the "Big Sugar" exhibit which showcases the modern sugarcane farming and production techniques.

Take a Tour of a Sugar Plantation
No visit to Clewiston is complete without a tour of a sugar plantation. There are several plantations in the area that offer educational and interactive tours. You and your family can learn about the sugarcane harvesting process, visit the fields where the sugarcane is grown, and even sample some freshly squeezed sugarcane juice. These tours are not only educational but also a fun way to experience the local culture and traditions.

Try Some Sweet Treats
With a town nicknamed "The Sweetest Town in America", it's no surprise that Clewiston has some delicious sweet treats to offer. One of the must-visit spots is the Clewiston Bakery, where you can indulge in the famous "Clewiston Muffins" - a traditional Cuban pastry filled with guava and cream cheese. And of course, no visit to Clewiston is complete without trying their famous sugarcane-inspired desserts such as sugarcane ice cream and sugarcane pie.

Join the Festivities
As mentioned before, the annual Clewiston Sugar Festival is a highlight for both locals and visitors alike. This two-day event is filled with live music, local food, and of course, lots of sugarcane products. You can also join in on the street parade and enjoy carnival rides with your family. It's a fun and festive way to celebrate the town's sweet history.

Clewiston may be a small town, but its sugar history and charm make it a memorable destination for a family vacation. From learning about the town's past to indulging in sweet treats and joining in on the festivities, there is something for every member of the family to enjoy. So next time you're planning a trip to Florida, don't forget to add Clewiston to your itinerary and experience the "sweetness" of this town for yourself.

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