Apples abound in autumn, and many of the Valley’s orchards (and even entire villages) celebrate with shindigs dedicated to this not-so-forbidden fruit. While many of the festivities occur during September, there are several this month, too. The big apple of them all is the annual one-day Applefest in Warwick, which draws more than 30,000 folks to this charming Orange County village. Hundreds of vendors, nonstop live entertainment, a children’s carnival, a farmers market — and the famous apple pie baking contest — can be enjoyed on Sunday, Oct. 14. There is no charge for admission.
The Apple Harvest Festival at Weed Orchards in Marlboro runs from Oct. 6-8 and features fresh apple pies, donuts, muffins, and cookies. There are also lots of kids’ activities, including a special cooking show that teaches children how to prepare healthy food.
That same weekend up in Rensselaer County, Goold Orchards kicks off its 24th annual Apple Festival, where their scrumptious ciders and strudels go fast. Other hot items at this fest are the Schodack Valley Fire Company’s renowned sausage and pepper sandwiches, and several wines from Capital Region vineyards in the tasting tent. In addition, there is a wide selection of crafters, activities for the little ones (including a rock-climbing wall) and entertainment galore, including the Hill Country Cloggers and the Albany Berkshire Ballet.
