Do you have a blueberry recipe that everyone raves about? Consider entering it in the Berkshire Blueberry and Book Festival Bake-Off on July 23. There are five categories in this event, all featuring blueberries – 1) pie, 2) muffins and coffee cakes, 3) baked desserts (Brown Betty, Crumble, Crunch, Buckle, etc.), 4) Gluten-free (pie, muffins, coffee cakes, desserts) and 5) jams or jellies. Entries that require refrigeration cannot be accepted.
The First Congregational Church of Berkshire sponsors the Bake-Off. More information and the entry form can be found on their website, RedBrickChurch.org, and at the Berkshire Free Library. The form and registration fee are due to the library by July 2.
An employee of Cornell Cooperative Extension that has experience judging at local county fairs will judge the entries. Prizes and ribbons will be awarded in each category. Entries are due at the Berkshire Fire Department between 8:15 and 9 a.m. on Saturday, July 23. Winners will be announced at 11:30 a.m. at the fire department. The baked goods will then be sold by the piece. Proceeds will benefit the Helping Hands Food Pantry of Berkshire.
Many other events are planned for the Berkshire Blueberry and Book Festival. The day starts with blueberry pancakes served at the fire hall from 7 to 10 a.m. The grounds will be filled with meet and greet authors, unique vendors, children’s activities and the popular classic car show.
Antique appraisals by internationally known Bob Connelly (www.bobconnelly.com), fun family programs and History Museum tours are planned in the Library. Live entertainment and an Art Show will be featured in the Community Hall throughout the day. Lunch options include a chicken barbecue starting at 11 a.m. at the fire hall and at a stand featuring burgers, spiedies, salads and other options.
Besides being a great time to be out and meet up with neighbors, the festival is a fundraiser for the non-profit groups in Berkshire – the library, fire department and food pantry. There will be baskets raffled off in the truck bay of the fire department and 50/50 drawings to benefit the library.
If you would like to volunteer for set-up, clean up, or help for an hour or two at one of the event stations, contact Karen McNally by calling (607) 657-8558.
