One spring evening, while my husband and I were stuck waiting in a local movie theatre with a broken projector, a boisterous patron stood up to announce, “while I have a captive audience, I’ve just GOT to invite all of you to our fantastic Blackberry Festival in Lenoir,” much to the delight of her gaggle of girlfriends. Her enthusiasm must have left an impression because, when festival time came around, we were headed north on 321 to investigate for ourselves. It turned out, the NC Blackberry Festival did not disappoint!
Each year, the festival attracts thousands of visitors from all over the southeast to join in the celebration of one of summertime’s favorite treats — fresh, sun-ripened blackberries. This July 12-13, 2019, Lenoir will have something for everyone. Friday evening hosts vendors and food trucks, plus a Blackberry Beverage Garden, Recipe Contest, Pageant, Singer-Songwriter Competition and Blackberry Glow Run. Finally, Saturday welcomes the main event, the NC Blackberry Festival.
The Festival has live music, plenty of vendors and food, and a Blackberry Eating Contest. But, our family’s favorite event is the Colossal Blackberry Cobbler Parade. This will lead up to the can’t-be-missed procession of the World’s Largest Patchwork Blackberry Cobbler, a spectacle that is the very definition of hometown fun and celebration. For kids, the Chick-Fil-A Blackberry Patch is a must do for families and “is a designated kids area featuring a variety of inflatables, arts and crafts activities, a puppet making area for the Colossal Cobbler Parade Brigade, children-friendly live music and more!” Several vendors offer inflatables and other activities at a cost. Of course, food vendors have plenty of blackberry treats and berries for sale as well.
All the festival has to offer will surely entertain your kids. When you get home with your fresh NC Blackberries, try making your own blackberry cobbler or this quick blackberry jam.
The NC Blackberry Festival is located in Lenoir, NC on July 12-13, 2019. For more information about the event, visit ncblackberryfestival.com, like them on Facebook or call 828.726.0323.
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