Crop abundance can vary from farm to farm, according to how many pickers have visited. The weather and time of the season, which generally runs from late May to mid-July, also affects which varieties will be available.

The USDA’s Marshall said a research team is trying to develop a larger and healthier blueberry, and the fruit is helping define Poplarville.

On June 13, the town will host the 26th annual Pearl River County Blueberry Jubilee. The downtown event that promotes the blueberry industry will feature arts and crafts, music, storytelling, a beauty pageant, an auto show, food booths and a 5K run.

Jubilee spokeswoman Tammy Krutzfeldt said about 200 vendors will be present.

“There are lots of blueberry products,” she said. “A blueberry queen will be crowned. For the first time, we will have a blueberry recipe contest for desserts and salads. Next year, we hope to expand it.”

Those who want to sample blueberries a little earlier can travel to Ocean Springs on Saturday to the fourth annual Red, White & Blueberry Festival.

Diane Claughton, co-founder of the Ocean Springs Fresh Market, said the market and Chamber of Commerce jointly sponsor the event.

“We will have about eight blueberry farmers and 40 booths,” she said.

Kenny Ward, owner of Kenny Ward’s restaurant in Ocean Springs, will show spectators how to cook a grilled, skinless duck breast with a blueberry and red wine reduction sauce, while Debbie Patout of Rene’s Quality Meats will create a blossom croissant with creme brulee and fresh blueberries.

“It’s a lot of fun,” Claughton said.