Have a Berry Nice Day

Plump red strawberries, still warm from the sun. Blueberries bursting with flavor. Delicate red raspberries destined for your cereal bowl. If you think “harvest season” is simply an autumnal event in Johnny Appleseed Country, well, think again! the delicious fun begins in late spring…and doesn’t stop until Thanksgiving preparations begin. Every month ushers in a new taste treat, so you’ll want to keep coming back for more!

June is a great time to visit farms throughout the region. head out to the fields for some pick-your-own strawberries – or take an effortless shortcut and stop by one of the area’s popular strawberry festivals! Usually clusters around Father’s Day, these traditional fairs feature bowls of strawberry shortcake, dripping with juice and piled high with whipped cream.

Where do you find these fabulous festivals? Try Hollis Hills Farm in Fitchburg, Lanni Orchard in Lunenburg, the Bullfinch Church in Lancaster, or Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Winchendon. Events like these often feature all kinds of good, entertainment and family activities – along with lots and lots of strawberries!

In July, thoughts turn into blueberries, and there;s nothing quite as satisfying as bringing home a bucket of just-picked berries. A number of local farms, like Carlson Orchards in Harvard, offer pick-your-own opportunities; check out the advertisements and listings in the Guide for directions. and yes, there are blueberry festivals, too! Local farmers will take any opportunity to celebrate their harvests, and love to see visitors enjoy the fruits of their labor.

If you’ve never tasted really fresh raspberries and blackberries, you’re missing a real treat. Visit a local farm or farmstand in August or swing by one of the region’s many farmers’ markets, where local growers showcase super fresh produce, and are willing to share their growing secrets and experiences. As an extra treat, Sholan Farms in Leominster, run by dedicated volunteers, offers not just mouth-watering berries, but great views of the city and surrounding countryside!

Explore Johnny’s backyard…and have a very, berry nice day!