Festival will satisfy currant curiosity

Festival will satisfy currant curiosity

The fourth annual Far North Currant Festival will celebrate one of Alaska's lesser-known berries from 1-4 p.m. on Aug. 22 at the Georgeson Botanical Garden in Fairbanks.

Visitors of all ages can enjoy berry tastings, educational exhibits, hands-on activities and garden tours. Local growers, gardeners, researchers, artists and community experts will be on hand to answer currant questions.

With six species native to Alaska - and hundreds of cultivated varieties - currants thrive all across the state. Currants come in a range of colors, from red to nearly black. They are easy to grow, burst with a variety of flavors and provide a nutritious addition to home gardens or specialty farms. Currants are a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins and can be made into jellies, syrups, pies and baked goods or enjoyed on their own.

This event is free. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The Georgeson Botanical Garden is located at 2180 West Tanana Drive on the University of Alaska Fairbanks Troth Yeddha' Campus.

For more information, visit www.uaf.edu/afes/places/gbg/visit/currant-fest/ or contact the Georgeson Botanical Garden at [email protected].

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