PICAYUNE, Miss. -- The public is invited to celebrate part of Mississippi State University Crosby Arboretum’s history during the Strawberries & Cream Festival April 14 in Picayune.

The event commemorates the Great Depression-era strawberry farm located on the grounds of what is now a premier native plant conservatory.

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

The festival begins at 1 p.m. and ends at 4 p.m. Activities will be held on the Pinecote Pavilion and in the loop by the Visitor’s Center. Admission is free. Additional parking will be available.

The cupcake decorating contest will begin at 1 p.m. and end at 3 p.m. Children will compete in three age categories: 7 and under, 8 to 12, and 13 to 15.

Participants will decorate cupcakes with a native Mississippi flower design and must be able to name their chosen plant and explain the 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.

MSU is an equal opportunity institution. For disability accommodation or other information, contact Barb Medlock at 601-799-2311, ext. 0.