23rd Annual North Carolina Blueberry Festival brings thousands to Pender County

BURGAW, NC (WWAY)– The 23rd Annual Blueberry Festival wrapped up Saturday, bringing together culture, music and family-friendly fun in downtown Burgaw.

Thousands of people attended the festival, where children played in foam-filled activity areas while dozens of local vendors showcased their products. Visitors also enjoyed live music, purchased fresh blueberries from local farmers and had the opportunity to meet members of the WWAY News team.

The event attracted both local residents and visitors from across the region, including Samantha Ward of Fayetteville State University.

Ward said one of her favorite festival treats was blueberry Italian ice.

“I did get some Italian ice. It was blueberry. It was amazing. I would definitely do it again,” Ward said.