50th Annual Shenandoah Valley Apple Harvest Festival

The Valley Today

In this episode, host Janet Michael discusses one of Frederick County's favorite events, the Shenandoah Valley Apple Harvest Festival, with co-chair Darla McCreary.

Darla, a Winchester Rotarian, shares that the festival will take place on September 21st and 22nd at the Frederick County Fairgrounds. The festival is celebrating its 50th year and will feature a variety of events, including arts and crafts, pet-friendly activities, and live music. Originally an arts and crafts festival, it has since expanded to include more fun elements like pet areas and adult beverages, including beer, cider, and mead. There will be continuous live music throughout both days, including performances by Mojo Mothership, Jimmy Lee, and Bottle Shock. A special 'Apple Harvest at Night' concert featuring Chris Darlington will require a separate admission. The festival will also host an apple pie baking and eating contest, a classic car show, and a kids' zone with face painting, inflatables, a petting zoo, and pony rides.

The festival is organized by the all-volunteer Rotary Club of Winchester, which raises significant funds for local nonprofits. The Rotary Club has donated a playground to Jim Barnett Park and hosts a variety of fundraisers, including a rummage sale, golf tournament, and international wine-tasting affair.

Food concessions will include everything from apple-themed treats like apple pie and apple dumplings to ethnic foods, BBQ, and Jamaican jerk chicken. General admission is $10 per day, with free entry for children under 10, law enforcement, veterans, and military personnel. Coupons for a dollar off can be picked up at Handy Mart stores. 'Apple Harvest at Night' requires a separate $10 ticket or $25 for VIP seating, which includes an adult beverage.

The festival is supported by sponsors like First Bank, Bank of Clarke, and White House/National Fruit. For more details, including vendor sign-ups and ticket purchases, visit rotaryclubofwinchester.org. Pets are welcome, and attendees are encouraged to bring chairs or blankets to enjoy the festival's atmosphere.