If you visit Ely in July, you don’t just see the town; you taste it. The 46th Annual Blueberry Art Festival returns this summer, cementing its reputation as the premier event of the season.

A Weekend of Art and Flavor Slated for July 24-26, 2026, the festival transforms Whiteside Park into a bustling hub of creativity. Drawing nearly 40,000 visitors, the event features 237 booths filled with artists, makers, and woodcrafters. It is the perfect place to find a unique watercolor of the lakes or a hand-thrown pottery mug for your morning coffee.

The Culinary Lineup Let’s be honest—we’re here for the food. Beyond the beer garden and the 25 food vendors serving everything from pork chop on a stick to seafood, the star of the show remains the freshly baked blueberry pies. They are sumptuous, sweet, and sell out fast.

Operation Blueberry The fun extends beyond the park. Look out for “Operation Blueberry,” running from July 25-28, where our local business community offers special maps and events. It’s the perfect excuse to explore the town, visit local attractions, and then return to the festival for a second round of waffles and art.