Get ready for a berry delightful time as the 34th Annual Texas Blueberry Festival, presented by Tipton Ford, rolls into historic downtown Nacogdoches. From Friday, June 7 to Saturday, June 8, this beloved event will transform the town into a vibrant celebration of the blueberry harvest, offering a variety of attractions and activities that draw thousands of visitors each year.
Kickoff and New Additions
The festivities kick off on Friday, June 7, at 6 p.m. with the Blueberry Festival Carnival, sponsored by Ferrara’s Heating and Air Conditioning. The carnival will be open again on Saturday, June 8, starting at 10 a.m. In addition to the traditional favorites, this year’s festival introduces exciting new attractions, including Mural Painting and Downtown Tours led by Brushing Up Nac. Tipton Ford SORAC (Sasquatch Off Road Adventure Club) will also feature a rock climbing wall in their space on the 400 block of E. Main St.
A Feast for the Eyes and the Palate
One of the highlights of the festival is the Blueberry Festival of Quilts, hosted by the Nacogdoches Quilters Guild. Held at Fredonia Hill Baptist Church on South St., this exhibit showcases rows of handmade quilts, vendor booths, and raffles for two prize quilts. The quilt show runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. Admission is $5, covering both days.
For those looking for a picture-perfect moment, Tipton Ford offers the Blueberry Festival Ford F1 Photo Op with larger-than-life blueberries and the iconic F1 Blueberry Festival Ford Truck at E. Main St. in front of the Charles Bright Visitor Center.
Entertainment and Activities for All Ages
Throughout the festival, live performances will be held on the Plaza Principal Stage on Pilar St., sponsored by Excel ER. Cool Zones, sponsored by Ferrara’s Heating & Air Conditioning, will be available to provide a refreshing break from the summer heat.
The Kiwanis Blueberry Pancake Breakfast is the perfect way to start your festival day, offering delicious pancakes at the N. Pecan St. and E. Main intersection. Plates are $7 for cash payments or $7.25 with a credit or debit card.
Experience and Participate
Festival-goers can purchase fresh East Texas-grown blueberries from Brookshire Brothers by the pint or flat. For those who prefer a hands-on experience, the Blueberry Farm Pick & Peek allows visitors to pick their own berries at The Blueberry Place for $2 per pound, sponsored by Eaton.
The festival also features activities for all ages, including Pickleball Play with Old Town Pickleball at Banita Creek Park, a Blue Washer Board Tournament at Festival Park sponsored by Badders Law Firm, and the True Blue Pet Parade sponsored by Stonewater Roofing. The Vehicle Funcase Car Show in Festival Park, sponsored by Motorhomes of Texas/RV Outfitters of Texas, showcases impressive rides.
For fitness enthusiasts, the Running of the Blueberries offers 5K and 10K routes along the Lanana Creek Trail. The City’s Parks and Recreation team suggests registering early for this popular event.
Family-Friendly Fun
Children and families will enjoy the Splash & Bounce Park, KSWP/KAVX Obstacle Course, petting zoo, and more at Festival Park. Cooking demonstrations by Dr. Mary Olle and Claudanne Jones, sponsored by Oncor Electric Delivery, highlight the culinary uses of blueberries.
For those seeking adventure, the Sasquatch Off Road Adventure Club will display off-road opportunities offered by Tipton Ford in the 400 block of E. Main St. The Blue Pies Smiling at Me Pie Eating Contest, sponsored by McWilliams Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing, promises fun for participants and spectators alike.
Competitions and Demonstrations
The Paul Kendrick Memorial 42 Tourney at the County Courthouse Annex benefits The Salvation Army of Nacogdoches, and the Blueberry Cupcake Battle by the Family Crisis Center of East Texas showcases amateur and expert bakers. Enjoy sweet treats and drinks from the Blueberry Soda & Sweet Shoppe, sponsored by Regions Bank and operated by Grandough Bakery.
Plan Your Visit
For more information, including vendor applications and a detailed schedule of events, visit the Texas Blueberry Festival website. Admission and parking for the festival are free, and thanks to Keep Nacogdoches Beautiful, the event is litter-free.
Join us in Nacogdoches on June 8 for a day filled with food, entertainment, contests, and community spirit. The Texas Blueberry Festival promises fun and memorable experiences for visitors of all ages, celebrating the bounty of East Texas and the unique charm of the oldest town in Texas.
