The Honeymoon Bay Blackberry Festival is set to take place on Saturday, Sept. 1. The sale will take place at the Honeymoon Bay Market, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Pies are $9 each, with proceeds going back to the society to fund community events.
Volunteers have been busy for the last couple of weeks, with things going into full swing at the Honeymoon Bay Hall this past week.
Leah Fjeldstad, chair of the Honeymoon Bay Community Society, says he has been busy preparing pie crusts at his home and a crew of seven volunteers have been baking at the hall.
Fjeldstad explains that because blackberry harvest is happening later in the season, the festival isn’t what it used to be.
“It used to be that every labour day we would have a dance and party and sell pies, tarts, jams, etc., but now the blackberries are not around until mid September,” said Fjeldstad.
In order to secure all the berry supply needed for the pies, Guy Patten, a HBCS member, hires pickers who harvest from all over the Cowichan Lake area.
There will still be other blackberry products available at the market, as Patten produces many products and sells them at his booth.
Fjeldstad also notes the jams and jellies made by Joan Henn, a Lake Cowichan resident.
“She makes the best jam I’ve ever had in my life,” said Fjeldsted. “Last year I bought five jars off her. I like the jam better than the jelly, but she makes a fine jelly.”
Kathie Madsen says this is her first year as director of the HBCS, and the event is the first she has had to take on in her new role.
“It’s a big undertaking,” she said, noting that she must coordinate volunteers, pastry makers, and the four days of baking required to ensure enough pies for the festival.
There will be both shortening and lard pastries available.
Don’t miss this chance to stock up your freezer with homemade blackberry pies for all your holiday dinners this coming season. Line-ups begin early, so make sure you claim your spot.
