Berry enthusiasts and North Carolina adventurers! Are you ready to embark on a whirlwind tour of the most delightful strawberry picking spots across the Tar Heel State?
You’re in for a treat, because my guide is bursting with sweet, sun-kissed goodness from Charlotte to Winston-Salem, Wilmington to Durham, and Raleigh and beyond! We’ll uncover the juiciest secrets hidden in the picturesque fields and charming farms that make North Carolina a berry-lover’s paradise.
So, gather your friends and family, and let’s go on a berry-venture across this beautiful state together. Welcome to the ultimate North Carolina Strawberry Picking experience!
In North Carolina, strawberry season typically begins in late April and lasts through May, with some variation depending on local weather conditions.
During this time, you can find fresh strawberries at local farmers’ markets, pick-your-own strawberry farms, and grocery stores.
To enjoy the freshest and most flavorful strawberries, it’s best to visit local farms and markets during the peak of the season. Keep in mind that the exact timing of the season may change from year to year due to fluctuations in temperature and rainfall.
Best Strawberry Farms in North Carolina
1. Carrigan Farms
- Location: 1261 Oak Ridge Farm Hwy, Mooresville, NC 28115
- Website: https://www.carriganfarms.com/
2. Wise Acres Organic Farm
- Location: 4701 Hartis Rd, Indian Trail, NC 28079
- Website: https://www.wiseacresorganic.com/
3. Lineberger’s Maple Springs Farm
- Location: 906 Dallas Stanley Hwy, Dallas, NC 28034
- Website: https://www.linebergersfarm.com/
4. North Asbury Farm
- Location: 201 Asbury Church Rd, Hamptonville, NC 27020
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/northasbury/
5. Smith’s Strawberry Farm
- Location: 1585 Sturbridge Dr, Pfafftown, NC 27040
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/Smiths-Strawberry-Farm-148224618532024/
6. J.R. Jones Farm
- Location: 1071 Jones Rd, King, NC 27021
- Website: https://www.facebook.com/JR-Jones-Farm-354800587912521/
7. Lewis Strawberry Farm
- Location: 6517 Gordon Rd, Wilmington, NC 28411
- Website: http://www.lewisstrawberryfarms.com/
8. U-Pick Strawberries at Shingleton Farms
- Location: 28421 US-17, Hampstead, NC 28443
- Website: http://www.shingletonfarms.com/
9. Waller Family Farm
- Location: 5030 Kerley Rd, Durham, NC 27705
- Website: https://www.wallerfamilyfarm.com/
10. Herndon Hills Farm
- Location: 7110 Massey Chapel Rd, Durham, NC 27713
- Website: https://www.herndonhillsfarm.com/
11. Porter Farms & Nursery
- Location: 3525 NC-42, Willow Spring, NC 27592
- Website: http://www.porterfarmsandnursery.com/
12. Buckwheat Farm
- Location: 2700 Holland Rd, Apex, NC 27502
- Website: https://www.buckwheatfarm.com/
Additionally, make sure to check each farm’s website or contact them directly for information about their strawberry picking season, hours of operation, and any special guidelines they may have in place.
Cost of Strawberry Picking in North Carolina
The cost of strawberry picking in North Carolina can vary depending on the farm or U-pick location. Typically, prices are determined by the weight of the strawberries you pick.
Prices can range from $2 to $4 per pound, although some farms may offer discounts for larger quantities or charge a flat fee for a specific container size.
In addition to the cost of the strawberries themselves, some farms may require a small entrance fee, which usually ranges from $1 to $5 per person.
This fee often covers access to the farm, parking, and sometimes additional amenities like picnic areas or children’s play areas.
Always call ahead or visit the farm’s website to confirm the latest pricing and availability before planning your strawberry picking adventure in North Carolina.
Tips for Strawberry Picking
Strawberry picking is a fun and enjoyable activity that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Here are some tips to make your strawberry picking experience in North Carolina a success:
- Wear comfortable clothing and shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty.
- Apply sunscreen and bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Bring a basket or container to hold your strawberries.
- Check with the farm before you go to make sure they are open and have strawberries available for picking.
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
When picking strawberries:
- Look for bright red strawberries that are firm to the touch.
- Check the bottom of the strawberry to make sure it is not moldy or rotten.
- Use a gentle twisting motion to remove the strawberry from the plant.
- Avoid picking strawberries with white or green tips, as they are not fully ripe.
After you have finished picking strawberries:
- Pay for your strawberries at the farm stand or designated area.
- Wash your strawberries thoroughly before eating or using them in recipes.
- Store your strawberries in the refrigerator and eat them within a few days.
By following these tips, you can have a successful and enjoyable strawberry picking experience in North Carolina.
North Carolina Strawberry Festivals
North Carolina hosts a variety of strawberry festivals to celebrate the strawberry season. Some popular ones include:
North Carolina Strawberry Festival
This festival is held in Chadbourn, North Carolina, usually in the first weekend of May. It features a variety of events, including a parade, live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, and family-friendly activities. Check their website or social media for updates on the exact dates and details: http://www.ncstrawberryfestival.com/
Fort Mill Strawberry Festival
Taking place in Fort Mill, South Carolina, which is just across the border from Charlotte, North Carolina, this festival occurs in early May. It offers a variety of attractions such as live entertainment, a car show, a pageant, a 5K run, and, of course, plenty of strawberry-themed food. Visit their website for more information: http://www.scstrawberryfestival.com/
Strawberry Day at the State Farmers Market
This event takes place at the State Farmers Market in Raleigh, North Carolina, usually in mid-May. Visitors can enjoy a variety of strawberry-themed dishes, sample fresh strawberries, and participate in family-friendly activities. For more information, visit the market’s website: https://www.ncagr.gov/markets/facilities/markets/raleigh/
These are just a few examples of the strawberry festivals you might encounter in North Carolina. Be sure to check local event listings, as there may be smaller, community-based strawberry festivals and events happening in your area during the strawberry season.
Strawberry Picking FAQs
What should I wear when strawberry picking?
It’s best to wear comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes when strawberry picking. Avoid wearing sandals or flip-flops as the ground may be uneven, and it could be muddy in the fields. You may also want to consider wearing a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
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How do I know which strawberries are ripe and ready to pick?
Look for strawberries that are fully red and plump, with no green or white patches. The berries should be firm and shiny, with no signs of bruising or mold. Gently tug on the stem to see if it easily separates from the plant, indicating that the berry is ripe and ready to pick.
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Can I bring my own containers to collect the strawberries?
Most farms allow visitors to bring their own containers for picking strawberries. Check with the farm before your visit to confirm their policy. You may also be able to purchase containers at the farm if you don’t have your own.
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Do I need to make a reservation to go strawberry picking?
It depends on the farm. Some farms require reservations, especially during peak season, to ensure that there is enough space and berries for everyone. Check with the farm before your visit to confirm their policy and to make a reservation if necessary.
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Can I eat the strawberries while picking them?
It’s generally not recommended to eat strawberries while picking them. You should wait until you get home and wash the berries thoroughly before consuming them. Eating unwashed strawberries could potentially expose you to harmful bacteria or pesticides that may be present on the fruit.
