In southeastern North Carolina, where the coast meets the countryside, sits Burgaw—a small town with deep roots, friendly faces, and a story or two to tell.
Burgaw, North Carolina, is famous for its blueberries (it is affectionately known as Blueberry Town), and every June, this small town turns into a berry lover’s paradise for the NC Blueberry Festival. It’s a celebration of the region’s agricultural roots, drawing thousands for live music, local vendors, blueberry pageantry, and blueberry pie-eating contests. But there’s more to Burgaw than just berries. It’s a place where Southern charm meets small-town hospitality, and every street has a story to tell. Sponsored by Downtown Burgaw and the NC Blueberry Festival.
To get the full picture of what makes Burgaw so special, we spoke with Olivia Dawson, Mayor of Burgaw and Director of Tourism for Pender County, about why this small Southern town has captured the hearts of so many.
“Burgaw is full of charm, history, and hometown hospitality,” said Olivia. At the center of it all is the Pender County Courthouse, “a stunning structure that’s been the center of town life for over a century,” alongside one of the oldest train depots in the state.
A Perfect Day in Burgaw
A summer day here starts slow and easy. “Start your day with a fresh cup of coffee from our local coffee shop and take a leisurely walk downtown around the historic Courthouse Square,” she said. “Depending on the day, there may be a fun event taking place.”
A giant blueberry lets you know you are in Burgaw, NC.
Burgaw’s downtown is full of charm, with shops and historic storefronts that offer a little something for everyone. “Burgaw is the perfect place for antique lovers and thrifty shoppers,” Olivia noted—a fitting description for a town where browsing old treasures feels like part of the local culture.
For lunch, she recommended exploring the local restaurants downtown, “where historic storefronts and friendly faces greet you at every corner.”
And if you're up for a short drive, the coast is calling. “Just a drive from Burgaw, you’ll find Topsail Island and Surf City—Pender County’s beloved coastal towns,” she said. “It’s the perfect blend of beach day and backroads adventure, all in one trip.”
Staying Cool Like a Local
Whether it’s the ocean or the river, there are plenty of ways to beat the summer heat. “Some ways to stay cool in Pender County are visiting our beaches in Surf City and Topsail Island,” Olivia said. “But my favorite these days is a nice boating day on the Cape Fear River with visits to what the locals call ‘Burgaw Beach.’”
Local Legends and Hometown Heroes
Burgaw may be small, but it’s produced some big names.“Samm-Art Williams, from Burgaw, is a distinguished American playwright, screenwriter, actor, and television producer,” Olivia explained. He helped shape shows like The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air and Martin. Local artist Ivey Hayes is also celebrated for his bold, colorful depictions of African American life and for creating artwork for local festivals including the beloved NC Blueberry Festival.
But Burgaw’s history isn’t just found in galleries or Hollywood credits—it’s heard in whispers and old train whistles. “The railroad has long been central to Burgaw’s identity,” she said, describing a local legend about phantom train—“a train whistle echoing late at night, long after the last locomotive has passed.” Some say it’s the ghost of a wrecked 1800s train still making its rounds.
The colors fly at Moores Creek National Battlefield, the site of a Revolutionary War battle.
Just outside town, Moores Creek National Battlefield is another site steeped in both history and mystery. “Visitors and rangers have reported hearing musket fire, footsteps, and even ghostly whispers along the trails,” Olivia said. Legend has it that some of the fallen loyalists never left.
In Burgaw, the past is never far away—it’s part of the town’s charm.
A Sweet Ending
No visit to Burgaw is complete without a treat. “In Burgaw, one of our new favorite places for ice cream is Scoops,” Olivia said with a smile. “Enjoy a scoop in a waffle cone, cool off with a milkshake, or share a banana split!”
We all scream for ice cream! The whimsical theme pairs nicely with the hand-dipped flavors.
But it’s more than just dessert that keeps people coming back. “Some places capture your heart the moment you arrive—Burgaw and Pender County, North Carolina, does just that.” Nestled between the coast and the countryside, this corner of southeastern NC is known for its laid-back charm, rich history, and a special kind of hospitality.
With strawberry fields in spring, blueberry picking in early summer, fall harvest festivals, and cozy winter markets, every season brings something fresh, flavorful, and fun. Whether you're here for the food, the festivals, or just a relaxing day downtown, Burgaw offers simple pleasures and genuine Southern welcome all year round.
