Wild Blueberries and Open Farms in Maine

Farm visits are always a popular addition to family travels, and two events in Maine this summer make them even more fun.

On Open Farm Day on July 24, nearly 100 Maine family farms will hold an open house. This is a great opportunity for children to learn where their food comes from and how it is produced. Children can meet farm animals up close and look inside barns. At some, they can even participate in farm activities.

At sheep farms, kids can learn how wool is carded and spun, while at herb farms, they can taste and smell the fragrant plants. Open Farm Day is sponsored by Real Maine, where there is a list of all participating farms.

Another date to remember is the weekend of Aug. 6 and 7, Maine Wild Blueberry Weekend. One of the few fruits native to North America, wild blueberries thrive in Maine’s glacial soils and cool climate.

Picking them is easy with a special rake and, at the participating farms, you and your children will learn the fine art of “raking” blueberries, then watch as they are dropped past a fan that blows away the leaves. Everyone can take home the berries they pick, and most farms offer blueberry drinks or baked goodies, too.

Participating farms include Burke Hill Farm in Cherryfield, Sennett’s Wild Blueberries in Albion, Smithereen Farm in Pembroke, and Brodis Blueberries in Hope. Nearly two dozen restaurants, wineries and breweries across the state will be participating as well, with blueberry-based food and drinks.