Maine · Berries & small fruit

Cranberry season in Maine

Typically mid-September to late October, with peak early October through mid-October.

Hatched chalk = early and late shoulders; solid = peak.

A small crop from Down East and midcoast growers, mostly sold in-state in October.

At a glance

Early

From mid-September — first pickings, lighter supply, best prices come later.

Peak

early October through mid-October — full stalls, full flavor. This is the stretch to plan around.

Late

Through late October — quantity for preserving, and the stalls start dealing.

Season length

about 6 weeks end to end, shoulders included.


Chasing the season?

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Frequently asked questions

When is cranberry season in Maine?

In Maine, the cranberry season typically runs mid-September to late October, with peak availability early October through mid-October. Exact weeks shift a little with each year's weather.

Can I pick my own cranberries in Maine?

Bogs are flooded and machine-picked, so u-pick is rare — buy at farm stands, harvest festivals, or bagged from October. The best market weeks are early October through mid-October.

How long does cranberry season last in Maine?

about 6 weeks end to end — mid-September to late October. The early and late shoulders are real but lighter; the solid stretch of chalk on the band is the sure bet.