For many New Brunswick locals, it was not only a provincial tradition, but also a forgotten family tradition -- remembered fondly but rarely continued on into adulthood.
That’s why one farming couple transformed their new home into their very own berry orchard, dedicated to reigniting New Brunswick’s love for its berry picking traditions.
Still, even more than their prized berries, it’s the experience and the atmosphere they offer their customers that they take pride in.
“What we wanted to do was make an atmosphere people can enjoy,” says Co-owner of Les Petits Fruits de Pré-d'en-Haut, Madeleine Céré.
“We want to make an atmosphere where people visiting the country can feel comfortable and see something beautiful!”
Ever since they first bought their farmland 1999, Owners of Les Petits Fruits de Pré-d'en-Haut, Jean-Louis and Madeleine Céré, say their goal’s been to create a warm and welcoming environment that celebrates the subtle joy that underlies gathering berries in the sun with friends.
Now 14 years later, what once started with a single blueberry field has since exploded into a colorful mosaic of strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and gooseberries.
They are all just waiting to be hand-picked in one of their many available U-picks experiences.
“Some people talk about as if it’s a new model,” says Céré. “But in fact it’s the old model and people are trying to go back to.”
Today, with two additional options, you don’t only get to handpick your own mixed bundle of berries, but now you can also take your time selecting your own locally grown Thanksgiving squash and the perfect pumpkin for Halloween.
If you’re not up for the trek, no need to miss out. Les Petits Fruits de Pré-d'en-Haut also offers tractor rides to and from each field, a wide selection of pre-picked berries and traditional style jams at the on-site fruit stand, and if you can’t find your way to Les Petits Fruits de Pré-d'en-Haut, you can always find their local New Brunswick berries at the Dieppe Market and food retailers across Atlantic Canada.
For more information about their U-picks, berries and berry products, visit: http://www.lespetitsfruits.ca