Blueberries & Fire: A Summer Fest at Eales

Join The Nature Conservancy and partners for Blueberries & Fire, a summer celebration at TNC's that brings together blueberry picking, wildlife discoveries and hands‑on learning about and habitat conservation.

This family‑friendly festival is your chance to explore the barrens in peak summer, snack on fresh blueberries, and learn how intentional fire helps keep these rare ecosystems healthy and thriving. Whether you’re up for a guided hike or prefer to wander at your own pace, there’s something for everyone.

When you register, you can select one of two guided hikes each offering a unique way to experience the preserve:

🔥 The Blueberry Burner
A more challenging, steeper hike through the barrens habitat. Along the way, pick blueberries and learn how active land management—including prescribed fire—supports this dynamic landscape.

🌱 Biodiversity Basics
A flat, shaded walk perfect for all ages. Discover the native plants and wildlife that benefit from prescribed fire and ongoing conservation efforts while enjoying an easy stroll through the barrens.

🎉 Fest Friends (No Guided Hike)
Not hiking? No problem! Join us as a Fest Friend to enjoy self‑guided family fun, blueberry picking and interactive learning throughout the preserve. TNC and partner organizations will host tables featuring games, wildlife education, prescribed fire demonstrations and more.

🍇 Come for the blueberries, stay for the fire science and leave with a deeper connection to nature.