Get Ready for a Berry Fun Time in Burgaw at the North Carolina Blueberry Festival
Each June, the small town of Burgaw, North Carolina, bursts to life in a juicy explosion of food, music, and local pride during the North Carolina Blueberry Festival. Just 30 miles north of Wilmington, this sweet celebration draws tens of thousands with its perfect blend of small-town charm, agricultural heritage, and blue-stained smiles. It’s not just a festival—it’s a full-on love letter to the berry that put Burgaw on the map. Continue reading this story sponsored by the NC Blueberry Festival.
- Festival roots: Began in 2004, grew from a courthouse square event into a major regional celebration.
- Blueberry heritage: Burgaw’s long farming history and local pride make it “Blueberry Town.”
- Event highlights: Live music, blueberry treats, family contests, 5K run, Tour De Blueberry, and new Blueberry Stomp.
- Visitor tips: Free admission, come early for parking, bring sunscreen, comfy shoes, and explore nearby stays and the Blueberry Trail.
A Taste of Tradition: The Festival’s Origins
The North Carolina Blueberry Festival began in 2004 as a modest idea dreamed up by a few Burgaw locals hoping to showcase the town’s agricultural roots. That first event, held on the courthouse square, drew about 5,000 visitors. Two decades later, it attracts up to 50,000 people each year.
More than just a street fair, the event is part of a larger mission by the NC Blueberry Festival Association to promote tourism, local business, and, of course, blueberries. It’s a homegrown success story that’s not just about fun — the festival injects roughly $2 million into the local economy annually.
Burgaw’s Blueberry Roots
Burgaw’s blueberry boom began in the 1930s, when Harold Graham Huntington planted the region’s first commercial blueberry farm. The area’s sandy, acidic soil and warm climate turned out to be perfect for growing blueberries. By the 1950s, Pender County—along with nearby Bladen and Sampson counties—had become a major hub for blueberry production in North Carolina.
Today, Burgaw’s blueberry heritage is as strong as ever. Generations of families still work the fields, and the region's blueberries are considered some of the best in the Southeast. It's no wonder the town has fully embraced its fruity identity — murals, trails, and businesses proudly celebrate Burgaw as “Blueberry Town.”
Put on your dancing shoes!
What to Expect at the Festival
When the festival rolls into town, Burgaw dresses up in its best blue and puts on a weekend of lively events that span the historic downtown. Live music fills the air, the streets buzz with food vendors and artisans, and you’ll find just about every blueberry-themed treat imaginable — from classic pies and muffins to blueberry lemonade, cobblers, and even blueberry wine. Don’t skip the slushies; they’re legendary.
There’s plenty of fun for the whole family!
It’s not all food, though. The festival features a wide variety of family-friendly entertainment, including the beloved NC Blueberry Queens, a blueberry recipe contest, a vintage car show, and the always hilarious pie-eating competition. For the active crowd, there’s the 5K run and the scenic Tour De Blueberry bike ride. New this year? The Blueberry Stomp — a sure-to-be crowd-pleaser that promises a messy good time.
With vendors ranging from local churches and nonprofits to regional artists and craft makers, there’s plenty to browse and bring home. Whether it’s a jar of homemade blueberry jam or a handcrafted souvenir, the marketplace reflects the charm and creativity of the community.
Planning Your Visit
The North Carolina Blueberry Festival will take place on June 20-21 in Burgaw. Admission is free, and parking is available throughout the area — though it gets busy fast, so come early or consider carpooling. Bring sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and your appetite.
For those looking to extend their stay, nearby coastal towns and countryside B&Bs offer a relaxing base. And if you're the type who enjoys a deeper dive into local life, consider walking the town’s Blueberry Trail to explore farms, shops, and eateries celebrating Burgaw’s blue-hued bounty.
Whether you're a foodie, a music fan, a history buff, or just love a good hometown party, the North Carolina Blueberry Festival serves up the perfect mix of tradition and fun — all topped with a generous helping of Southern hospitality.
Where to Stay
If you're planning to soak up more of that blueberry charm, Burgaw offers a few cozy places to rest your head. The Burgaw Motel is an affordable option right in town—perfect for festivalgoers looking to stay close to the action. The charming Bebe's Bed and Breakfast delivers Southern hospitality in spades, with comfy rooms and a homemade breakfast to start your day right. You’ll also find a range of short-term rentals, including Airbnbs and vacation homes—some even pet-friendly—giving you plenty of flexibility whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or bringing the whole family (furry members included).
