4 Ways to Enjoy the Wild Blueberry Harvest Festival
One small but mighty berry variety is making waves in central Nova Scotia. This August 14 – 29 the Wild Blueberry Harvest Festival celebrates the harvest and features over 50 wild blueberry themed events across the central region of the province. This berry is worth the hype – not only is the wild blueberry Nova Scotia’s provincial berry but it is also the number one fruit crop in acreage export sales and value.
There is so much to see, do and taste we’ve compiled four ways for you (and your stomach!) to celebrate – but first, what’s so different about wild blueberries?
“Wild Blueberries taste better and are healthier than high-bush blueberries. They are also very unique to this part of the world and grow in abundance here in Nova Scotia,” says festival organizer Devin Trefry. “We’re pretty proud of the wild blueberry here in Nova Scotia.”
Local Community Events & Suppers
A true community initiative, local groups play a huge role in making the Wild Blueberry Festival so enchanting. These committed volunteer’s host community picnics, teas, suppers and pancake breakfasts throughout the two week festival.
Farmer’s Market Festivities
Add a little excitement into your regular weekend trip to the market with a local celebration of blue. Join vendors and market goers in a series of themed events jam-packed with wild blueberry fun. Truro, Parrsboro, Springhill, Tatamagouche & Pugwash Farmers’ Markets will all be participating!
A Taste of the Festival
Check out the Taste of the Festival menu and choose a participating restaurant or producer for a delicious wild blueberry-inspired dish. We recommend Wild Caraway, Sugar Moon Farm, Jost Vineyards or Masstown Market for sure-fire good eats & fun.
“They play an important role in our festival as they offer visitors a greater variety of wild blueberry culinary experiences and they allow visitors more opportunity to participate in the festival.”
U-Picks
Pack up the car and head to a local u-pick to carefully select your own wild blueberries. Once home, enjoy the fruits of your labour in their natural state or in one of these great blueberry recipes.
When it comes to taking in a two-week festival, Trefry’s advice is simple:
“Identify the community event that most appeals to you and suits your schedule and find a Taste of the Festival experience (or two) to add to your day.”
Check out the full festival schedule for all things wild blueberry here.