If you are looking for an easy summer day trip, put this upstate harvest celebration on your radar. Located under two hours from NYC, a vibrant street festival is preparing to take over the Hudson Valley.
The 37th Annual Ellenville Blueberry Festival returns this August, bringing local food, live entertainment, and family activities to downtown Ellenville.
What to expect at the annual blueberry festival
Taking place on August 8, 2026, this beloved community event transforms the Village of Ellenville into a vibrant celebration. The festival runs from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and is absolutely packed with things to do.
You can spend the afternoon strolling through a diverse lineup of local arts and crafts vendors. When you get hungry, head over to the food court to grab a bite while enjoying live entertainment. Best of all, the entire event is dedicated to supporting the local community.
Sweet contests and family fun
Bring your appetite, because blueberries are the undeniable star of the show. If you have a competitive sweet tooth, you can enter the Blueberry Muffin Contest. It is open to both kids and adult amateurs, meaning everyone has a fair shot at the prize.
There is also a highly anticipated Blueberry Donut Eating Contest designed specifically for kids. Families will also be thrilled to know that the free Kid’s Zone area is officially back for 2026.
Exploring the scenic village of Ellenville
The festival is the perfect excuse to explore a stunning part of New York. Ellenville is tucked away in the southwestern corner of Ulster County, within the Town of Wawarsing.
It sits beautifully between the breathtaking Shawangunk Ridge and the Catskill Mountains. The area is rich in history, with local legends and roots dating back to the early 1700s. It provides a picturesque and historic backdrop for a weekend day trip.
The details:
- 📆 August 8, 2026, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
- đź“Ť Village of Ellenville, NY (Under 2 hours from NYC)
- 🎟️ Free!