While we’re in the final few weeks of summer, apples are beginning to come into season in North Carolina’s ‘apple country’ of Hendersonville. The town is the largest apple producer in North Carolina (with the entire state ranking seventh in the nation), so it’s easy to see why the streets come to life on the first weekend of September for everyone celebrating both fall and apple season. This year, September 1st-4th everyone can start early and get a taste of fall at the 71st annual apple festival.
The Apple Festival takes place over four days
The four-day celebration features a street fair on Main Street, live music and entertainment, food vendors, apple growers (with plenty of apples for purchase), activities for children and the quintessential King Apple Parade on Main Street.
The street fair encompasses nine blocks of Main Street
Regarded as one of the most well-known street fairs in the Carolinas, over 150 vendors will be in attendance for this lively event. For over 70 years, The Apple Festival has been a beloved tradition for not only Hendersonville families but those in nearby Asheville, Blue Ridge communities, and even Charlotte and the Piedmont. People travel from all over for a taste of some of the finest apples produced in North Carolina.
Apple of my eye
Hendersonville's main apples include Red Delicious, Golden Delicious, Rome Beauty and Galas. Many orchards in the area also produce special varieties which are available at the festival for you to taste and take home.
Of course, any festival needs live music
The Apple Festival will feature constant musical entertainment for the entire four days. If you're looking for some party libations, stop in Flat Rock Ciderworks. The small, craft cidery is known for their fruit-infused ciders like blueberry, peach and strawberry. For a taste of true craft cider, Flat Rock is your best bet and conveniently located in downtown Hendersonville.
Friday kicks off the celebration
Friday features the opening ceremonies of the festival and live musical entertainment, Saturday and Sunday include rides, street fair, local orchards and vendors on-site, entertainment and community activities.
Come for the apples, stay for the parade
While the entire four-day festival is certainly a blast, the main event is the King Apple Parade on Labor Day. The parade begins promptly at 2:30 p.m. and includes professional floats and bands, classic cars, fire trucks and others cruising through downtown. The King Apple Parade attracts around 60,000 per year and is a stunning and fun finale.
The Apple Festival is a great way to say goodbye to summer and hello to fall. Have you visited before? It’s important to remember no pets are allowed and the festival is wheelchair accessible.
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