“I am proud to declare the first annual Wild Blueberry Weekend in Maine to honor the importance of Maine’s wild blueberries and the hardworking Maine people who grow and bring them to market,” said Governor Janet Mills. “I encourage everyone to visit one of the participating wild blueberry farms or to sample Maine-grown wild blueberry products at the many restaurants, inns, breweries, wineries, ice cream shops, and distilleries selling them during Wild Blueberry Weekend.”
July 23, 2021 – State of Maine: The Office of Governor Janet T. Mills
Wild blueberries (Vaccinium angustifolium) emerged on the rocky, acidic soils of the Barrens of Maine following the retreat of the glaciers more than 10,000 years ago. These wild blueberries, which are not planted but grow naturally, were first managed and harvested by the Wabanaki and are now grown by 485 Maine farms on 38,660 acres, primarily within Washington, Hancock, Knox, and Waldo counties
“These wild blueberries…are now grown by 485 Maine farms on 38,660 acres.”
Gov. Janet Mills
Maine produces nearly 100% of all wild blueberries in the United States, and they are one of the top three specialty crops produced in the state! Maine’s wild blueberry growers and businesses are significant contributors to Maine’s economy and are vital assets to Maine’s rural communities. These tiny sweet berries can be enjoyed fresh during the height of summer in Maine, while Individual Quick Freezing (IQF) technology allows consumers to buy berries frozen at the peak of freshness all year round, all over the world.
Wild blueberries are recognized as Maine’s official state berry, and blueberry pie is recognized as the official state dessert. And what goes better with dessert than a warm, cozy mug of Bar Harbor’s Blueberry Tea or Carrabassett’s Blueberry Cobbler coffee?
Maine wild blueberries are one of the world’s top 10 superfoods – a deep purple fruit that is rich in antioxidants and health benefits.
This year, the Wild Blueberry Commission of Maine is launching Maine’s first annual Wild Blueberry Weekend to encourage residents and visitors to explore blueberry farms and participating establishments and eat, drink, and experience the sea of blue in August before the barrens turn a deep red in the fall.
Blueberry & Cashew Whippersnapper
Chocolate Covered Blueberries
“Now, therefore, be it resolved that I, Janet T. Mills, Governor of the State of Maine, do hereby proclaim the weekend of August 7th and 8th, 2021 as Wild Blueberry Weekend in Maine, and I encourage all people to recognize the vital contributions made by the State’s wild blueberry growers and businesses to our economy, and to participate in activities that celebrate and honor the wild Maine blueberry.“