Eat Your Way Through the NC Blueberry Festival in Burgaw

Published by Carl. Last Updated on June 4, 2025.

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The NC Blueberry Festival in Burgaw is a sweet slice of summer fun held each June. Our guide shares how You Can Enjoy It, Too!

The always-popular North Carolina Blueberry Festival in the Eastern North Carolina town of Burgaw celebrates one of our favorite fruits and the communities that grow them.

Each June, thousands of people gather in this charming small town to enjoy live music, blueberry treats, and even more fun, all while honoring the important role that blueberries play in the region’s agriculture.

We love Burgaw for its historic downtown and down-home feel, and this festival is the town’s perfect showcase!

If you’re ready but don’t know how to join the fun, here’s everything you need to know about the NC Blueberry Festival.

What is the North Carolina Blueberry Festival?

2025 Event Date: June 21, 2025 (with a few limited events to be held on Friday, June 20, 2025)
Event Info

a group of tents in a park during the NC Blueberry Festival

The NC Blueberry Festival is a one-day event held in Burgaw, North Carolina, a lovely town near Wilmington and just off I-40 (Exit 398).

Burgaw sits in Pender County, one of the top blueberry-producing areas in the state. The festival is both a celebration and a way to support local farmers and businesses.

Speaking of the North Carolina Blueberry Festival, this annual event is packed with family-friendly fun, regional vendors, and of course, blueberries!

It began in 2003 and has grown into one of North Carolina’s largest small-town festivals, drawing in visitors from across the state and beyond.

Read More: Day Trips from Wilmington

How to Enjoy the North Carolina Blueberry Festival

a group of people eating pies at a table during the NC Blueberry Festival

As we mentioned, the NC Blueberry Festival features a packed schedule of activities that celebrate local culture, agriculture, and community spirit.

Here are some highlights to help you enjoy this wonderful occasion:

5K Run/Walk and Tour de Blueberry (Registration Required): Start your morning with a run, walk, or bike. These active events kicks off the festivities and are a great way to explore Burgaw on foot or on two wheels.
Live Music and Entertainment: All day long, enjoy performances from local and regional musicians on the main stage in downtown Burgaw.
Blueberry Recipe Contest (Registration Required): Locals compete for bragging rights with their best blueberry-inspired dishes. Think pies, cakes, jams, and more!
Pie Eating Contest: Watch in awe or join the fun and try to win the festival’s famed Pie Eating Contest!

Classic Car Show During the NC Blueberry Festival in Burgaw NC

Classic Car Show: During this festival favorite, admire beautifully restored vintage cars lined up along the streets of Burgaw.
Arts and Crafts Vendors: Browse handmade goods, local artwork, and blueberry-themed souvenirs from dozens of regional vendors.
Kids’ Activities: From inflatables and games to face painting and crafts, there’s plenty of fun for younger visitors at the NC Blueberry Festival.
Blueberry Products Galore: Stock up on fresh blueberries, homemade jams, baked goods, and more. Just be sure to bring a cooler and leave plenty of room at home for your festival haul!

We hope you’re able to get out and enjoy the North Carolina Blueberry Festival this year!

More Things to Do in Burgaw and Nearby

Whether you come for the music, the food, or the friendly faces, it’s a sweet way to celebrate summer in North Carolina.

If you’re planning a weekend around the NC Blueberry Festival, you’re in luck because there’s more to explore nearby!

Historic Downtown Burgaw is full of charm, with a classic courthouse square, local shops, and friendly vibes. Stop by the Pender County Museum or grab lunch at one of the town’s local eateries. Burgaw Brewing is a great place to start, by grabbing a pint and enjoying something tasty to eat.
Wilmington (30 minutes away from Burgaw): Wilmington is known for its scenic Riverwalk, family-friendly fun, and its proximity to North Carolina’s best beaches. We also love Wilmington attractions like Battleship NC and Airlie Gardens.
Topsail Island (50 minutes away from Burgaw): Topsail Island is a 26-mile-long barrier island known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and easy access via numerous entry points. The Intracoastal Waterway cuts through the island, offering prime spots for paddling and boating. Don’t miss a stroll on Jolly Roger Pier or Surf City Ocean Pier. Another must-visit is the Karen Beasley Sea Turtle Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, where you can learn about sea turtle conservation. Be sure to reserve a spot in advance!