RALEIGH – The State Farmers Market will host a strawberry dessert contest Thursday, May 4, as part of its annual Strawberry Day celebration. Contestants can submit their favorite strawberry dessert for a chance at prize money and bragging rights.

Desserts should include at least two cups of N.C. strawberries, and strawberries must be a main ingredient. Recipes will be judged on flavor, appearance, quality and creative use of strawberries. All entries must be in disposable containers and include the complete recipe with cooking instructions, along with contestant’s name, address and telephone number. A total of $400 in prize money will be awarded for the top three desserts, with $200 for first place, $125 for second and $75 for third.

Desserts can be dropped off between 8 and 10 a.m. at the State Farmers Market Administrative Office at 1201 Agriculture St. Judging is open to media and will start at 10 a.m. Prizes will be awarded at noon.

Strawberry Day activities will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with free samples of strawberry ice cream for all guests. Visitors also can have their photo taken with Suzy Strawberry and pick up free strawberry recipes to take home. In addition, market vendors will be selling a variety of locally grown strawberries.

North Carolina is the fourth-largest producer of strawberries in the nation. This season has been unusual for local growers. An early start to the season was put on hold by a late cold snap in March. However, most local strawberry growers have recovered and are expecting a strong crop into late May.

For more information on Strawberry Day and other special events at the State Farmers Market, go to www.statefarmersmarket.org.