Cornelius Blueberry Festival

Learn about Cornelius Blueberry Festival

If you’re wondering what the Cornelius Blueberry Festival is, here’s the simple version: it’s a small, community celebration of blueberry season in and around Cornelius, Oregon. Below, you’ll find what it typically includes, when it usually happens, how to get there, and tips to make the most of your visit.

Quick Answer

The Cornelius Blueberry Festival is a family-friendly summer event celebrating local blueberry season, usually in mid-July. Expect blueberry pancakes, fresh berries, kids’ activities, music, and local vendors. It’s casual, affordable, and easy to attend, with free or low-cost admission. Check the City of Cornelius or library event calendar each year for exact dates and details.

What Cornelius Blueberry Festival Means

In Cornelius, “Cornelius Blueberry Festival” generally refers to a community gathering that highlights the local berry harvest. It’s less like a massive fair and more like a neighborhood celebration—think pancakes, craft booths, fresh berry sales, and simple entertainment in a park or public space.

Event names and formats can change from year to year, but the spirit stays the same: celebrate blueberries at their peak and support local farms and makers.

Why People Search for This in Cornelius, Oregon

  • Blueberry season here is a big deal. Washington County farms are minutes away, and July is peak picking time.
  • It’s an easy, low-stress outing for families and visitors.
  • It pairs well with nearby stops in Forest Grove and Hillsboro—wineries, parks, and u-pick farms are close by.

Cornelius sits about 25 miles west of Portland, between Hillsboro (10 minutes east) and Forest Grove (5 minutes west), so it’s a convenient summer day trip.

What to Expect

While details vary by year, here’s what’s typical:

  • Food and drink
    • Blueberry pancakes or pastries in the morning
    • Fresh blueberry pints/flats for sale
    • Lemonade, coffee, and sometimes food trucks
  • Activities
    • Kids’ crafts, face painting, lawn games
    • Live music or a DJ
    • Library or community booths (often bilingual: English/Spanish)
  • Shopping
    • Local vendors with produce, plants, jams, and handmade goods
  • Atmosphere
    • Friendly, laid-back, and family-oriented
    • Most activities outdoors with shade from park trees

Good to know:

  • When: Usually mid-July (blueberry peak). Mornings are best for lighter crowds and cooler temps.
  • Where: Commonly in a Cornelius park or downtown community space. Exact location can change—check the current year’s listing.
  • Cost: Free or low-cost admission; food and vendor items priced individually.
  • Weather: Expect warm, dry days (70s–90s). Mornings are cool; afternoons can be hot.

Tips for Visitors / Residents

  • Arrive early
    • Pancakes and berry flats can sell out before noon.
  • Bring the basics
    • Cash for small vendors, a reusable bag/container, water, hat, and sunscreen.
  • Getting there
    • Driving: Street parking and nearby lots are typical; arrive early for the best spots.
    • Transit: TriMet Line 57 (TV Highway) serves Cornelius. From the MAX Blue Line (Hillsboro), transfer to the 57 westbound.
  • Accessibility
    • Parks are generally stroller- and wheelchair-friendly with paved paths. Look for posted ADA parking areas.
  • Make a day of it
    • Nearby: Forest Grove (5–10 minutes) for Main Street cafes and McMenamins Grand Lodge; Hillsboro (10–15 minutes) for shops and the Saturday Market; Hagg Lake (25–30 minutes) for a swim or picnic after the festival; Fernhill Wetlands (10 minutes) for birding and an easy walk.
  • U-pick add-on
    • Plan a u-pick stop within 10–20 minutes of Cornelius to round out your berry day. Many Tualatin Valley farms post daily availability on their websites or social pages.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cornelius Blueberry Festival

  • How far is this from Portland?

    • About 25 miles west. Drive time is typically 35–50 minutes, depending on traffic along US-26 or TV Highway (OR-8).

  • What time of year is best?

    • Mid-July is prime blueberry season. Some years it may be late June or late July—check current listings.

  • Is it kid friendly?

    • Yes. Expect family activities, lawn space, and easy strolling.

  • Is parking available?

    • Usually free street parking and nearby lots. Arrive early for the closest spots.

  • Do I need tickets?

    • Most years, no ticket for general entry. Food, crafts, and berry purchases are pay-as-you-go.

  • Are dogs allowed?

    • Typically on-leash if the event is in a public park. Check this year’s rules before bringing pets.

Best Local Resources

  • City of Cornelius Events Calendar (for dates, locations, and any street closures)
  • Cornelius Public Library (community events and family activities)
  • Tualatin Valley (Washington County) Visitor Calendar (regional farm and festival listings)
  • Oregon Blueberry Commission (season updates and berry tips)
  • TriMet Trip Planner (routes and schedules for Line 57 and MAX connections)

Summary

The Cornelius Blueberry Festival is a friendly summer celebration of the local blueberry harvest—pancakes, fresh berries, kids’ activities, and easygoing vibes. It usually happens in mid-July, with free or low-cost entry. Check the current year’s city or library listings for exact details, arrive early, and consider pairing it with a nearby u-pick or park.

  • U-Pick Blueberries Near Cornelius: Best Farms and When to Go
  • Living in Cornelius, Oregon: Neighborhoods, Commute, and Everyday Essentials
  • Easy Day Trips from Cornelius: Hagg Lake, David Hill Wineries, and Fernhill Wetlands