Background Information
- Generations of Hammonton families have tended to the sandy soil and harvested their plump, juicy berries, making it the ideal location to honor this humble and delicious fruit. Although the town's very first blueberry festival was held in 1953, it didn't become an annual event until 1987, when organizers started it as a quiet community event. Over the years, it has grown into a relatively large festival with an estimated 10,000 visitors. Admission to the Red, White and Blueberry Festival is free and parking is also free. Shuttles are available to take you from the school parking lots to the festival grounds.
Blueberries: Star of the Festival's Menu
- Unsurprisingly, blueberries take center stage on the menus of food vendors at the festival. You’ll find everything from sweet treats such as blueberry cannolis, pie and ice cream to savory specialties such as blueberry sausages, salsa and blueberry-pomegranate chicken tacos. Local growers bring roughly 800 cases of fresh berries to sell at the festival, ensuring that there are more than enough juicy gems to go around. If you're looking for a more lasting souvenir, farm stands such as the DiMeo Farms stand sells non-GMO blueberry bushes so that you can grow your own berries at home.
Juicy Festival Entertainment and Shopping
- Between snacking, you might want to check out some of the other attractions at the blueberry festival. For example, if you're looking to outfit your home with a blueberry theme, you're in luck. From tissue holders and potholders to pillows, coasters and napkins -- vendors sell a variety of home goods and crafts that honor the lovely berry. In addition to its 60 craft vendors, the festival also has a play area for kids, with inflatable slides and other amusements. Other entertaining options include entering the blueberry pie-eating contest, watching the classic car show and listening to live music that plays throughout the festival.
Nearby Lodging
- There are a few lodging options in the Hammonton area. The Red Carpet Inn and Suites is located approximately 3 miles from Hammonton High School, where the festival is held. It is across the street from Grog Rock Golf & Country Club, on Route 30 East. Rodeway Inn is roughly 4 1/2 miles away, near Wharton State Forest. This pet-friendly hotel welcomes up to two pets weighing 30 pounds or less in each room for an extra nightly charge.
