Monroe Strawberry Festival 

MONROE — Monroe Congregational Church will hold its 35th annual Strawberry Festival on Saturday, June 17, from 10 am to 5 pm, and Sunday, June 18, from 11 am to 5 pm, on the Monroe Green, Route 111.

This popular, old-fashioned, early-summer festival follows a tradition that started in the late 1800s. Native strawberries, freshly picked by hand will be served in shortcake and whole berry pies as well as dipped in chocolate.

Strawberry jams, jellies, breads, and strawberry souvenir items will also be available.

Hamburgers and hot dogs will be offered for lunch.

There will be inexpensive games for children and entertainment on both days. In addition on Sunday, at 1 pm, a children’s show, Roger the Jester will perform (no charge).

More than 100 juried crafters and fine artists will sell their handmade items and paintings at the festival, including flowers, clothing, fine art, jewelry, furniture, glass, pottery, crafts of wood and metal, and much more.

New to the festival this year, The Connecticut Piecemaker’s Quilt Guild will present an exhibit of more than 30 quilts all day Saturday ($2 adults, $1 children entry donation).

The festival and parking are free.

For more information call the church office at 268-9327 on weekdays before 1 pm.