For over 15 years, local organizations have designed and provided fun-filled activities welcoming visitors and residents as part of the 4-day Cranberry Blossom Festival.
One of only a few fruits native to North American, early settlers thought the flower blossoms resembled the head of a crane, and gave them the name “crane berry.” Over time the name became cranberry. Cranberry blossoms are pretty delicate pink and white flowers that come out in late June and early July. Rectangular bogs, part of a marsh ecosystem that includes unusual wildlife and water sustainability, are visible as you drive by. Pollination by bees is an important part of the process. Small, green fruit develops behind the flower, growing and changing from green, to white, and finally to dark red in the fall. Harvest season is typically between late September and late October.
Our unique geology and agricultural heritage make both cranberry blossom and harvest seasons special to our area. Once a glacial lakebed, the soil in the Wisconsin Rapids area is ideal for cranberries. Our county is one of the largest cranberry producing regions in Wisconsin which provides over 50% of the world’s cranberries. As a result we are also are home to several processing, juice, food, and health and beauty products employing the benefits of cranberries.
Bring the whole family! Browse handcrafted essentials, local art, and farm fresh food, enjoy dizzying fun at the carnival, catch the action on the water fishing or watching the water ski show and don’t miss the parade. Seeking nighttime fun? You’ll find incredible music throughout the weekend. Fun for Everyone at the Cranberry Blossom Festival!