Springtime heralds the return of HerbFest, marking a significant milestone as the festival celebrates its 25th year anniversary as a cherished fixture in Wake Forest. Scheduled for April 26-28 and May 3-5, HerbFest promises a delightful experience for herb enthusiasts and garden lovers alike. The festival's venue at 525 South White Street, in the adjacent green space at Loading Dock Wake Forest in the heart of Downtown Wake Forest, sets the stage for a vibrant celebration.
While HerbFest has deep roots in the Wake Forest community, stemming from the passion of co-founders Bob and Elizabeth Johnson for herbs and small-town charm, the event has a longer history than many realize. “HerbFest actually started about 31 years ago as our annual sale at our herb shop, Cameron Park Botanicals, named after the neighborhood where we lived in Raleigh,” explains Bob, who previously served on the Board of the International Herb Association. “When we moved to Franklin County and relocated our offices to downtown Wake Forest, we thought it would be better to host HerbFest here and started doing it here.”
Throughout its evolution from a humble shop sale to a beloved tradition, Bob and Elizabeth have played instrumental roles in shaping HerbFest into what it is today. As the longest-running herb festival in the United States, HerbFest continues its tradition of offering an unparalleled selection of herbs, along with local vendors showcasing goods for the garden, home, kitchen, and healthy lifestyle.
Reflecting on HerbFest's history, Bob shares a memorable moment regarding the Mordecai Park herb sale in Raleigh, once the largest plant sale in North Carolina. “The proceeds from Mordecai’s herb sale supported the historic park on old Wake Forest road for decades; however, the City of Raleigh decided to remove the greenhouse where Betty Perry and Master Gardener volunteers propagated the herbs, leading to the cessation of the annual sale,” recounts Bob. “In response, HerbFest was relocated to Mordecai Park for two years, during which they contributed 50% of their sales to support the park. Despite their efforts, the sale eventually ceased, prompting HerbFest to move to Wake Forest while continuing its operations.”
This year, in honor of the festival's silver jubilee, organizers are pulling out all the stops to ensure visitors enjoy a memorable experience. The outdoor festival allows attendees to bask in the beautiful spring sunshine while perusing the various offerings. Live entertainment, provided by local musicians, will further enhance the festivities, complementing numerous vendors and educational sessions highlighting the benefits and uses of different herbs.
Proceeds from HerbFest contribute to the Graham Johnson Cultural Arts Endowment (GJCAE), a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing arts education and public art projects to the community. Established in memory of the Johnsons' son, Graham, who was lost to suicide in 2006, the endowment reflects their commitment to fostering creativity and cultural enrichment. The Johnsons’ daughters, Liz and Janna, work alongside their parents in support of the GJCAE's initiatives. “Since our daughters have, and always will be involved, the future of HerbFest looks bright,” says Bob. “Through our endowment, we intend to leave funds behind to ensure the festival continues.”
HerbFest prides itself on offering heritage and heirloom variety herb plants that are non-GMO and certified organic from certified mother organic stock. “They are bottom heated to develop the root structure, which increases survivability over and above almost every other retail seller,” explains Bob. “That combination is what brings customers back year after year and decade after decade.”
“HerbFest is just one of the many vibrant traditions that define Wake Forest's unique character. With its bustling Downtown corridor, abundant green spaces, and diverse cultural offerings, Wake Forest offers residents and visitors an unparalleled living experience,” said Jason Cannon, President of the Wake Forest Business and Industry Partnership (WFBIP). “Celebrating 25 years is a testament to the significance of this tradition for our Town, showcasing its enduring economic stability and exceptional community well-being.”
Join us as we celebrate 25 years of HerbFest and the thriving spirit of community in Wake Forest! Follow HerbFest on Facebook and Instagram for updates and information, and mark your calendars for this special anniversary event.
