Every year at the beginning of the apple harvest season, the small town of Westminster in the upstate area of South Carolina holds an Apple Festival to showcase an industry with strong roots in Oconee County. This festival in South Carolina started in 1961, a longstanding tradition many look forward to each year. Let's explore what you can expect if you were to join in on the fun!
This year's festival is scheduled for September 8th - 9th, 2023.
The South Carolina Apple Festival is held each year in the week following Labor Day over the course of several days.
The climate in Oconee County gave area orchards a competitive edge in the apple industry, leading to an increase in orchards and roadside apple stands through the years. Currently, there are six apple orchards within Long Creek and Westminster, some you can visit to pick your own apples to buy.
An apple baking contest is one of the activities to enjoy during this South Carolina festival.
Other types of contests you might see during the festival include apple bobbing ...
... and a window decorating contest with creative displays in the windows of local businesses throughout the town.
Each year, Walhalla and West-Oak High Schools compete in the Apple Bowl football game.
Ladies compete in the Miss South Carolina Apple Festival Pageant.
In 2018, a competition was held for the title of Mr. Apple Festival. In 2023, the festival will include an Apple Dumplin' pageant for boys and girls up to age 9.
Other common festivities include a parade...
... live music entertainment, street dances, a rodeo, arts and crafts vendors, and more!
Above all, expect to see lots of apples in many different forms and varieties!
You'll find more information including details on this year's festival schedule at the Visit Oconee South Carolina website. Make sure you have plenty of bags to take with you, especially if you plan to pick apples. The Wicked Shoppah Tote would be a good option if you're in need of additional bags!
Have you ever been to this apple festival in South Carolina? What was your favorite part of the festival?
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