Published September 01. 2021 07:18PM
The Blueberry Festival at the Burnside Plantation July 17-18 was bursting with flavor and entertainment. This year, there were two giant tents with seats and space for performers. Vendors were moved to the lower lawn to make space for one of the larger tents.
The dog agility demonstrations returned, and there was a petting zoo and pony rides for children. There was a reading center for kids too.
Costumed actors gave talks about the plantation’s equipment. Buses shuttled patrons from the distant parking lots. And of course there were blueberries, from bushes to baked goods, jams and coffees.
This year, blueberry products were available for purchase at the festival, but like last year, there was also an online sale with car-side pickup.
Attendance was huge, with 3,500 attendees across the two-day festival. Online sales increased dramatically. Lori Kutish, managing director of Historic Bethlehem Museums and Sites, said that online sales tripled over last year.
Next year will mark the Blueberry Festival’s 35th anniversary. The celebration will take place July 16 and 17, 2022.
Press photos by Lani Goins Blueberry Fest 1: Shuttle Buses were used to ferry patrons from the parking lots to the Blueberry Fest.
Vendors display their wares on the lower field, a change from previous years. Shade from the trees was stronger on the lower field, and appreciated by vendors and patrons alike.
Juniper enjoys a pony ride in the Apple Orchard.
Corey the Apple from Lehigh Valley Reads delighted young readers. Let's hope Corey returns for Apple Days Sept. 18 and 19.
Press photo by Scott Piccotti A family enjoys a photo opportunity with the bunnies in the petting zoo from Sunset Boarding Stables.
Press photo by Scott Piccotti Volunteers serve up delicious blueberry pie, strudel, coffee cake, and ice cream in the Dessert Tent.
Press photo by Madeline Thomas This family escapes the heat to create their own sheep in the Kids' Club arts and craft tent.
