Celebrate Maine’s Wild Blueberry Farms during Maine Wild Blueberry Weekend!
August 5-6, 2023
The third annual Maine Wild Blueberry Weekend, a celebration of one of Maine’s signature crops organized by the Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine, is set for August 5-6, 2023.
Those who take part will be able to explore wild blueberry farms located in Franklin, Lincoln, Kennebec, Knox, Penobscot, Piscataquis, Waldo, and Washington counties. Some farms plan to open their doors to sell fresh wild blueberries directly, while others will host a range of activities and tours. Additionally, dozens of Maine businesses will serve food and beverages made with wild blueberries during the weekend; have you tried a Maine wild blueberry ice cream or sundae yet?
Several Real Maine member farms will be participating in Maine Wild Blueberry Weekend this year:
At Burke Hill Farm in Cherryfield, you can:
- Tour the farm and visit the barn where berries are packed
- Learn about the ecosystem that produces the berries
- Experience a demonstration of hand harvesting methods
- Purchase Burke Hill Farm’s organic berries
At Smithereen Farm in Pembroke, you can:
- Chat with Odessa Piper, a chef who will be offering hand-pie and galette demonstrations and be on hand to answer questions while creations bake in the wood oven
- Discuss ways to preserve berries and fruits of summer for year-round use
- Pick wild blueberries in their barrens
- Explore the farm, which has a focus on agroforestry
Wild blueberries are native to Maine and have been growing in our state for more than 10,000 years. In total, Nearly 500 farmers in Maine can produce more than 100 million pounds of wild blueberries each year. Maine is the only state in the U.S. with significant commercial production of the crop.
For a full list of participating wild blueberry farms and businesses, and a map to outline your itinerary, visit www.wildblueberryweekend.com. If you participate in Wild Blueberry Weekend, make sure to use the hashtag #WildBlueberryWeekend. If you’re curious about the health benefits, origin, and ways to enjoy wild blueberries, visit www.wildblueberries.com for research, recipes, and more.
Whatever farm you choose to visit during this year’s Wild Blueberry Weekend, here are some tips to help make your visit memorable.
TIPS FOR WHEN YOU VISIT MAINE FARMS:
- Check listings for hours, schedules, and updates
- Follow farm rules. Stay in visitor areas, stick to established trails and roads, and avoid tailgating farm machinery. Keep pets at home.
- Bring an insulated container when you shop – keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot for quality and freshness
- Always clean fresh produce before eating and preparing
- Plan to carry out any trash and recyclables
- Help keep farms healthy — stay home if sick or not feeling well. Use good hygiene before, during, and after visit.
- Be weather wise, dress appropriately, and know your personal limits
- Ask farmers how to enjoy Maine farm products year-round!
Real Maine is the state’s official agriculture and agritourism promotions program. From flowers to blueberries to ice cream sundaes, plan your Real Maine summer agricultural experience. Visit www.RealMaine.com to connect to farms, food, and agriculture throughout Maine.
