What do apple growers do on a crisp fall weekend in the Lake Champlain Islands? Invite 20,000 people to share in the bountiful harvest, enjoy crafts, antiques, a flea market, music, and, of course, apple pie, apple crisp, candy and caramel apples, cider donuts and fresh pressed or hot mulled cider. The whole town of South Hero, Vermont, prepares all year for the annual Apple Fest, held each year over Columbus Day and Canadian Thanksgiving Weekend.
Back in 1990, community members, along with Ray and Pam Allen of Allenholm Farm and Ron and Celia Hackett of Hackett’s Orchard, decided to try out the idea of an Apple Fest. Their vision was, and is, “to promote community spirit and unity by hosting a two-day Apple Fest which stresses family participation and which encourages visitors to experience the uniqueness of our Island in the fall.” The setting was South Street in South Hero, a road that ambles past orchards, the town school, churches and the 1829 tavern that houses the Merchants Bank. Community non-profits sponsored a craft fair, an auction, a flea market, and entertainment for the whole family.
That first weekend, says Pam Allen, the weather was perfect, sunny and in the low 70’s, and nearly 7,000 people showed up. “It was a success from day one.” More events were added, and now the program includes fun for kids, music, crafts, a flea market, and all things apple..
The apple crop in the Lake Champlain Islands is juicy and plentiful. This 17th annual Apple Fest is bountiful. As always, South Street will be closed to traffic, so that families can enjoy a leisurely walk, or hitch a ride on a shuttle.
This year Apple Fest falls on October 11th and 12th. Admission and parking are both free. Events will include activities such as pony rides and petting paddocks, and an antique tractor display, clowns, music, and other entertainment. Don’t miss the craft fair, Papa Ray’s luscious apple pie or Ron Hackett’s cider donuts! And if you are up early on Sunday, an Apple Pancake Breakfast at St. Rose of Lima from 7 to 10:30 a.m.
Make plans for AppleFest 2008, Columbus Day Weekend. Don't miss it!
Directions
From the south: I-89 to exit 17, the Champlain Islands. Right at the light onto Route 2. After crossing the Sand Bar causeway, take the first left onto Landon Road and follow signs for Apple Fest Parking.
From Plattsburg, N.Y.: Take the ferry to Grand Isle. Turn Right on Route 314, and right again at the blinking light at the intersection of Route 2. Follow signs for Apple Fest parking.
From the north: Take Route 15 to Rouses Point, N.Y. and cross the Rouses Point Bridge to Route 2. Follow Route 2 south to South Hero and follow signs for Apple Fest parking.
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