"North Carolina growers produce 70 varieties, each with their own unique flavor," said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. "Be sure to include peaches in your summertime plans."

When selecting a peach, choose one with creamy to gold undertones and a well-defined crease. Peaches with green undertones should be avoided, as they will never fully ripen. They should be firm, but soft and have a good fragrance. Ripe peaches should be refrigerated in high humidity, while those that still need to ripen a bit can be set out at room temperature while it continues to soften and develop juices and flavor. Before eating a peach, wash and peel it, then remove the pit. A simple way to peel a peach is to dip it in boiling water for 30 seconds and then dip it in cold water. The peel should slide of easily.

July 21-Peach Festival in Candor, NC.

The festival, held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. will include peach cooking contests, a 5K run, a parade and plenty of peach samples, desserts and ice cream. The Peach Day events at the farmers markets will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will include peach recipe contests, samples and lots of fun.

For more information about the peach festival, visit www.townofcandornc.com. Information about Peach Day at the State Farmers Market can be found at www.statefarmersmarket.org or 919-733-7417, while information about festivities held at Piedmont Triad Farmers Market can be found at www.triadfarmersmarket.com or 336-605-9157.

(Image provided by Flickr user hr.icio.)

Looking for more happenings in the area? Check out asheville.com's comprehensive visitor center.