Clewiston, Florida 2025

clewiston,FloridaClewiston, Florida, also known as "America's Sweetest Town," is a small city located in the heart of South Florida's sugarcane country, in Hendry County. The city has a population of approximately 7,000 residents, as of the 2020 census. Clewiston is known for its rich agricultural history, particularly in sugarcane and citrus, and is home to U.S. Sugar, one of the largest cane sugar producers in the country. The city's economy is also driven by tourism, with Lake Okeechobee, the second largest freshwater lake in the contiguous United States, located just north of Clewiston, providing ample opportunities for outdoor recreation.

The culture of Clewiston is a unique blend of Southern hospitality, agricultural tradition, and tropical charm. The city has a strong sense of community, and residents take pride in their town's history and heritage. One of the city's most notable events is the annual Sugar Festival, held every April, which celebrates Clewiston's sugarcane industry with a parade, live music, arts and crafts, and a variety of food and drinks. Other special events in Clewiston include the Christmas Boat Parade, the Hendry County Fair, and the annual Clewiston Golf Tournament.

When it comes to local attractions, Clewiston has plenty to offer. In addition to Lake Okeechobee, the city is home to the Clewiston Museum, which showcases the history of the area and its sugarcane industry. Visitors can also take a tour of U.S. Sugar's factory and learn about the process of making sugar. Other popular attractions include the Clewiston Inn, a historic hotel built in 1926 that's known for its Southern charm and hospitality, and the Clewiston Country Club, an 18-hole golf course that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The food in Clewiston reflects the city's agricultural heritage and Southern roots. Visitors can enjoy fresh, locally-sourced produce at one of the city's many farm-to-table restaurants, or indulge in traditional Southern dishes like fried chicken, collard greens, and sweet tea. The city is also known for its seafood, particularly its stone crab claws, which are a local delicacy.

The people of Clewiston are friendly and welcoming, with a strong sense of community pride. The city's small-town charm, coupled with its rich history and natural beauty, make it a truly special place to visit or call home.

Clewiston's history dates back to the late 1800s, when the area was first settled by farmers and ranchers. The city was officially incorporated in 1925, and its growth and development have been closely tied to the sugarcane industry ever since. Today, Clewiston remains an important center of agriculture and tourism in South Florida, and its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty continue to attract visitors from all over the world.