As summer unfolds in the Sierra Nevada foothills, the Apple Hill Growers begin to welcome a vibrant tapestry of purple and blue hues, heralding the arrival of the annual Lavender Blue Harvest Days. This cherished event, taking place on the weekends of June 21–22 and June 28–29, 2025, invites visitors to immerse themselves in the fragrant fields of lavender and the sweet allure of ripe blueberries.
Experience the Lavender Blue Harvest Days
Hosted by the Apple Hill Growers Association, the Lavender Blue Harvest Days offer a delightful blend of agricultural experiences and family-friendly activities
- Bluestone Meadow Farm: The heart of the festival, Bluestone Meadow Farm, welcomes guests to cut their own lavender bouquets, craft lavender wreaths or critters, and explore the enchanting Lavender Labyrinth. Children can enjoy the dedicated Kid Zone, while the ‘Lavender Answer Guy’ provides insights into cultivating and utilizing this versatile herb. A variety of lavender-infused products, including essential oils, soaps, and lotions, are available for purchase.
- Participating Farms: Beyond Bluestone Meadow, other Apple Hill farms join the celebration with u-pick blueberry experiences, lavender and blueberry treats, artisan crafts, and more. These weekends are the perfect opportunity to savor the early summer bounty and explore the scenic beauty of the region.
During Lavender Blue Harvest Days, the Apple Hill Growers invite you to explore fresh-picked blueberries, fragrant lavender, and delicious farm-made food and drink. Here’s a look at some of the participating locations and their seasonal specialties:
- Delfino Farms: Sample handmade seasonal desserts featuring blueberries, strawberries, rhubarb, and cherries, and enjoy a relaxing wine tasting at Edio Vineyards.
- Harris Tree Farm: Delight in lavender mini donuts, lavender lemonade, and other sweet and floral farm-fresh bites.
- 24Carrot Farm: This rustic, certified organic farm offers colorful produce and fresh baked goods. Snag organic blueberries and blueberry plants to enjoy the taste of summer at home.
- Jack Russell Farm Brewery: Savor a blueberry pancake breakfast, a blueberry hot honey dessert pizza, and blueberry-lavender craft beverages served in their scenic beer garden.
- Hidden Star: Sip their blueberry lavender cider and enjoy a warm slice of blueberry-lavender cobbler—a true summer comfort treat.
- Rainbow Camino Ridge: U-Pick blueberries available only during the two Lavender Blue Harvest Days weekends! A fun and seasonal family experience—don’t miss it! Reservations required, make them here.
- Rucksack Cellars: Celebrate Lavender Days with a 2-for-1 wine tasting flight.
- Smokey Ridge Farmstand and Winery: Cool down with a refreshing lavender sangria and pick up fresh lavender bouquets for a fragrant reminder of your visit.
- Grandpa’s Cellar: Enjoy a lavender-themed menu featuring pies and baked goods, plus a special lavender tasting flight highlighting unique floral flavors in every bite.
- Starfield Vineyard: Enjoy curated self-guided wine flights, with Starfield Members receiving complimentary tastings and the public getting $5 off. Take advantage of special case deals and 3-pack wine sales.
- Wofford Acres Vineyards: Sip wine while soaking in sweeping views of the South Fork of the American River canyon and blooming irises. Enjoy a 33% discount on 3+ bottles when you mention Lavender Days.
- Lava Cap Winery: Relax with a glass of wine in their lavender-covered garden oasis. Guests are welcome to bring outside food, and picnic tables are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Pine-O-Mine Ranch: Enjoy live music, face painting, and cotton candy for the kids. Treat yourself to savory bites, blueberry-lavender cocktails or mocktails.
- Fenton Herriott Vineyards: Enjoy live music until 6:30 during festival days. Join in on the fun with a Sip & Paint Class while enjoying delicious wine.
- O’ Halloran’s Apple Trail Ranch: U-pick lavender and blackberries are fun for the whole family. Enjoy petting farm animals and the expansive picnic area.
Delightful Lavender Dessert: Lavender Blueberry Shortbread Bars
Celebrate the flavors of the Lavender Blue Festival at home with this simple yet impressive dessert. These buttery bars combine fragrant lavender with juicy blueberries over a rich shortbread base; this decadent treat is sure to become a summer staple!
Ingredients
For the shortbread base:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¼ tsp salt
For the blueberry topping:
- 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon dried culinary lavender
- ⅓ cup sugar
- 2 tsp cornstarch
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Make the shortbread: In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add flour and salt and mix until a crumbly dough forms. Press into the bottom of the prepared pan in an even layer. Bake for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
- Prepare the topping: While the crust bakes, combine blueberries, lemon juice, lavender, sugar, and cornstarch in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat for about 5–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries burst and the mixture thickens slightly.
- Assemble and bake: Pour the blueberry mixture over the hot shortbread crust and spread evenly. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes.
- Cool and enjoy: Let the bars cool completely before slicing. Chill in the fridge for easier cutting. Dust with powdered sugar if desired.
Explore More Summer Activities in Apple Hill
The summer charm extends beyond the Lavender Blue Harvest Days. Visitors can indulge in a variety of seasonal activities:
- 2025 Farm to Fork Dinner: The Apple Hill Grower’s Farm to Fork Dinner will take place on Saturday, July 12, at Delfino Farms. This 21+ event features a six-course, wine-paired dinner crafted with fresh, local ingredients from Apple Hill farms. Guests will enjoy hard cider, a berry-inspired dessert spread, live music, and beautiful views of the orchards and vineyards. Purchase your tickets here.
- Summer Harvest Days: Scheduled for July 26–27 and August 2–3, 2025, these weekends showcase the region’s abundance of stone fruits, berries, baked goods, and wines. Participating farms offer u-pick experiences, tastings, and family-friendly events.
- Winery Events: Local vineyards, such as Edio Vineyards and Lave Cap Winery, host special events including wine tastings, live music, and “Bottle Your Own” experiences, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment.
Plan Your Visit
To make the most of your Apple Hill adventure:
- Accommodations: Consider staying at Ponderosa Ridge Bed & Breakfast, which is offering a special promo rate when you use the code: LAVENDER for a minimum 2-night stay. They will be serving a special blueberry and lavender inspired breakfast menu.
- Stay Informed: Visit applehill.com for the latest updates on events, participating farms, and seasonal offerings.
Embrace the essence of summer with the Apple Hill Growers, where the harmonious blend of lavender and blueberries creates an unforgettable experience for all who visit.