Nectarine Festivals in California

Frequently asked

When is nectarine season in California?

Nectarine season in California runs June through August, overlapping closely with peaches. The San Joaquin Valley and foothills around Fresno and Tulare counties are the main growing areas. Nectarines are essentially fuzz-free peaches and ripen on the same timeline — early varieties arrive in June, with midsummer bringing the sweetest Yellow Freestone types. Choose fruit that's fragrant, slightly soft at the tip, and deeply colored without green at the stem. Harvest events and U-pick windows follow the same window — check each listing for exact 2026 dates.

Can you pick your own nectarine in California?

Yes — California has pick-your-own nectarine farms where you can harvest your own. See the Gather Grove U-pick nectarine guide for locations and seasons.

Are nectarine festivals in California free?

It varies — many are free community events, while others are ticketed. Each festival's page on Gather Grove lists its admission.