The public is invited to join in a celebration of history and nature at the Strawberries & Cream Festival on April 14 at the Mississippi State University Crosby Arboretum in Picayune.

The event commemorates a former Great Depression-era strawberry farm that once occupied the grounds, which now host a prominent native plant conservatory.

Attendees can enjoy live music, nature trails, giveaways, Picayune Frog Lemonade, fresh strawberries, ice cream, spring photo opportunities, and a children’s cupcake decorating contest. Local vendors will offer various items, including jellies, wood crafts, and coffee. Food trucks will also be available.

The festival runs from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., with activities at the Pinecote Pavilion and in the loop near the Visitor’s Center. Admission is free, and additional parking will be provided.

The cupcake decorating contest, open to children, will run from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will decorate cupcakes with native Mississippi flower designs and explain their chosen plant to the judges. Cupcakes and decorating supplies will be provided, and registration is free. The awards ceremony will be held at 3:45 p.m. For competition rules, visit the Arboretum’s website at https://tinyurl.com/yk358eex.