Bremerton Blackberry Festival marks summer's end

Summer may be coming to a close, but the blackberries are sweet as can be at the Bremerton Blackberry Festival. Three fun-filled days will celebrate the end of summer with a festive atmosphere and fun for the whole family along the picturesque Bremerton waterfront.

The boardwalk will come alive with more than 100 arts, crafts and food booths offering something for everyone and every palate. Your taste buds will go wild for the wide variety of blackberry-themed food, including "blackberry slugs," a type of doughnut, as well as ice cream, cobblers, jams, jellies, cider and wine.

Work off all that berry goodness in the Blackberry Criterium Bike race or the Berry Fun Run. Then relax by strolling through the classic car show, listening to live music or viewing the chalk art along Second Street. Let the kids have a heyday with pony rides, inflatable mazes and special entertainment.

The festival runs Saturday through Monday along the boardwalk on the Bremerton Waterfront. For more information, go to www.blackberryfestival.org.

Laurie Dunlap, Seattle Times staff