CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) – Strawberry season is underway in western Massachusetts, giving residents a chance to pick fresh, locally grown fruit at farms across the region.
The start of June marks the beginning of peak strawberry season, which typically runs through early July. With the first day of summer just weeks away (June 21), local farm stands are also beginning to offer freshly picked berries for purchase.
Today’s weather forecast discussion
Many farms within about 25 miles of Chicopee are welcoming visitors to pick-your-own strawberries, according to the state’s agricultural listings. Call ahead or visit the farm’s website to check hours and availability before heading to your local farm.
Pick-your-own strawberries
Farm officials say the best berries are bright red with a natural shine and fresh green tops. Berries with white tips should be avoided, as strawberries do not continue ripening after they are picked.
When harvesting, gently grasp the stem just above the berry and pull with a slight twist. Early morning or cool, cloudy days are the best times for picking, as fruit gathered in the heat can bruise more easily and spoil faster.
Should strawberries be refrigerated?
Once picked, strawberries should be kept dry, refrigerated, and if stored properly, they will stay fresh for about a week, food expert Amanda Neal of the Food Network said. Strawberries stay fresh when dry and cold and should be washed when ready to eat.
Pick your own in season
Strawberries are the first and several summer crops available for pick-your-own across the region, with blueberries and raspberries arriving in July, followed by peaches later in the summer.
-
June into early July: Strawberries
-
July through August: Blueberries and Raspberries
-
July to September: Peaches
-
August to November: Apples
-
September to October: Pumpkins
Local News Headlines
WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Download the 22News Plus app on your TV to watch live-streaming newscasts and video on demand.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP.
