Guided Foraging Excursions
Led by experienced foragers, explore the local flora and discover the edible treasures hidden in our natural surroundings.
Educational Workshops
Attend seminars on plant identification, sustainable foraging practices, and the nutritional benefits of wild foods.
Wild Food Feast & Celebration
The highlight of our festival, where participants prepare and enjoy a communal meal made from the wild foods collected during the weekend.
About us
Join Us for a Weekend of Discovery and Delight!
Whether you’re a seasoned forager or a curious beginner, our festival offers something for everyone. Each spring, participants gather to learn about edible wild plants, forage in the fields and forests, and share their knowledge and experiences.
A Community Tradition
The North Carolina Wild Foods Weekend has been a cherished tradition since its inception. Inspired by the teachings of wild food pioneer Euell Gibbons, our festival fosters a sense of community and connection to the natural world. Over the years, it has grown into a beloved event that draws attendees from all over Eastern North America.
Rustic Accommodations
Held at the scenic Betsy-Jeff Penn 4-H Center, our festival offers rustic accommodations, Southern home-cooked meals, and a range of activities for all ages.
Experience the Adventure
Whether you’re hiking through the woods, learning a new recipe, or enjoying the camaraderie around the bonfire, you’ll create memories to last a lifetime.
Easy & Simple Registration
Don’t miss out on this extraordinary event. Registration is required, and spaces fill up quickly. Join us for a weekend of exploration, education, and epicurean delight at the North Carolina Wild Foods Festival.
Accommodations
Accommodations are provided in rustic dormitory-style cottages at the 4-H Center.
ost meals are prepared by the center’s staff, except for the Saturday wild feast.
The festival also features contests, wine tasting, and craft workshops, making it a comprehensive and immersive experience for both novice and experienced foragers.
Our History
The North Carolina Wild Foods Weekend has a rich history dating back to 1968.
Inspired by the teachings of Euell Gibbons and similar events in West Virginia, local wild food enthusiasts established the festival to celebrate and educate people about foraging and preparing wild foods. The event is held annually every spring at the Betsy-Jeff Penn 4-H Center in Reidsville, North Carolina.
FAQ
Answers to our most common questions.
What is the North Carolina Wild Foods Weekend?
The North Carolina Wild Foods Festival, also known as the North Carolina Wild Food Weekend, is an annual event celebrating the rich diversity of edible wild plants. The festival includes foraging excursions, educational workshops, and a communal wild food feast. It has been held every spring since 1968.
Where and when is the weekend held?
The festival is held at the Betsy-Jeff Penn 4-H Center in Reidsville, North Carolina. It typically takes place on the fourth full weekend of April. The exact dates for each year can be found on our official website.
How can I register for the weekend?
You can register for the festival through our registration page. Early registration is recommended as spaces fill up quickly. The registration fee includes meals, lodging, seminars, and workshops.
What should I bring to the weekend?
Participants should bring comfortable outdoor clothing, sturdy shoes, a blanket, sheets, pillow, bath towel, hand towel, washcloth, and toiletries. All accommodations are in rustic dormitory-style cottages, so be prepared for a camp-like experience.
Are children allowed at the weekend?
Children are welcome at the festival, and we offer reduced registration fees for children under 12. However, parents are responsible for supervising their children throughout the event.
Is the weekend suitable for beginners?
Yes, the festival is open to both beginners and experienced foragers. Our workshops and excursions are designed to cater to all skill levels, and experienced guides will be available to assist you in identifying and collecting wild foods.
Field Trip Leaders
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Mike Rasnake
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Russell May
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Russell May
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What are you waiting for?
Ready to experience the North Carolina Wild Food Weekend for yourself? Register today, and get ready for an amazing time.
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Testimonials
What our participants have to say about their experience at the NC Wild Foods Weekend.
We actually can’t remember how many times we’ve been to this event. Maybe half a dozen and each time was very enjoyable, educational, inspiring and always great food and fellowship. Bring a notebook and your walking shoes and come have a good time!
Monika Crum
Best time ever teaching mushroom cultivation last year and learning and cooking and finally eating all the amazing wild food.
Michael Akers
What an amazing event and great, salt-of-the-earth foragers! I feel like it’s family amongst the coordinators and the attendees. If you love any bit of wild food, come enjoy great food and even better company! Going again this year, wish I’d started going 12 years ago
Jeannie Dunn
Contact us
Experience a weekend of Foraging for Foods, Hikes and Preparing a Feast from the Wilds of Nature.