Fifty years ago, all the way back in 1972, when Lincolnton was merely half the size it is today, this small city just 45 minutes northwest of Charlotte began a tradition. And today, this fall festival in North Carolina has grown to one of the largest one-day fall fests in the state. If there’s one fall festival you must attend this year in the Tar Heel State, then make it the Lincoln County Apple Festival taking place Saturday, October 15, 2022.
The setting for this apple harvest celebration is non other than Lincolnton's Main Street, right in the middle of a quintessential small American town that still retains and celebrates its historic character.
Situated in the Lincolnton Commercial Historic District are 62 historic buildings that are listed on the District's register with the National Register of Historic Places. If ever there was a festival... oh, that's right... we already covered that.
What began five decades ago as a small festival in a small town with just under 1,000 in attendance has grown to a much bigger, heartier celebration with thousands upon thousands checking out the fun each year.
The county's apple growers are onsite with the fruits of their labor and scores of apple varieties that are perfect to scarf down one juicy bite after another -- or grab a bag or two and bring 'em home to make homemade apple pies in the coming months.
Speaking of apple pies... pick up one or more to bring home -- and don't forget that neighbor or best friend of yours, either. Fresh apple pies make excellent gifts!
The festival begins bright and early at 9:00 a.m. so if you plan it carefully you could theoretically have three meals here at the festival!
In addition to apples, fair food, and pies, the 50th Annual Lincoln County Apple Festival also features a farmers' market, two stages with local talent, a kids' activity area, and more than 250 vendors with arts, crafts, and more.
Save the date for this fall festival in North Carolina now! For parking and other information, the Lincoln County Apple Festival website is the place to look! The City of Lincolnton‘s motto pretty much describes the kind of day you’ll have: Near the City, Near the Mountains, Near Perfect!
