National Morel Mushroom Festival is coming up: What to know

Michigan is in the middle of morel season, and people who hunt for the prized yet elusive mushrooms are getting set for a weekend devoted to their passion.

The National Morel Mushroom Festival, now in its 64th year, takes place May 16-19 in Boyne City and includes a competitive mushroom hunt, morel seminar and a tasting event. The tasting event will showcase morel-infused dishes prepared by local chefs that will be voted on by a panel of celebrity judges. Admission is $10, and tasting tickets will also be available for purchase. Food trucks,  entertainment, arts and crafts, and events for kids are part of the festival. For information visit bcmorelfestival.com.

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Morels, prized for their meaty flavor and cone-like shape, are often found in Michigan's forests, fields and especially in recently burned areas.  The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has released a new interactive map marking the state's burn field spots. You'll find it at michigan.gov. The website also offers tips on morel foraging, handling and cooking.

Contact Detroit Free Press food and restaurant writer Susan Selasky and send food and restaurant news and tips to: sselasky@freepress.com. Follow @SusanMariecooks on Twitter. Subscribe to the Free Press.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: National Morel Mushroom Festival: What to know and DNR mushroom map