October in California is the best time of the year for apple lovers as the orchards are in full bloom. Plenty of festivals revolving around the delicious fruit are held this time of year. The festivals are designed to give visitors the opportunity to sample the local apples and patronize the area merchants. These fun-filled festivals offer plenty of entertainment for kids and adults alike.
Located in the north east of California near Sacramento, the town of Springfield holds an annual apple festival for a weekend in October. This festival has taken place for 30 years, and draws more than 30,000 people each year. The festival consists of 200 booths of arts and crafts and food. Also, a pie eating contest and apple baking contest entertain visitors, in addition to the plentiful entertainment for the kids, like clowns and rides. Several runs take place, a 5K and 10K, and also a run specifically for children. Guests will also be able to enjoy listening and dancing to the Bluegrass bands. This festival is non-profit, and is alcohol-free.
Springfield Apple Festival
35680 Highway 190
Springville, CA 93265
559-539-0619
springville.ca.us/applefest
Julian, Calif., located just north of San Diego, is a small town known for the abundance of apples grown in the area. In October, an annual apple festival is held at the Menghini Winery in Julian, featuring plenty of apple displays, local merchants, music, dancing, games and activities and Julian’s famous apple pies for sale. A beer and wine garden supplies local beverages for visitors. The festival lasts from morning to evening on a Saturday and Sunday, and there is a small admission fee. Be sure to bring the kids as there are plenty of fun activities to entertain the little ones as well.
Menghini Winery
1150 Julian Orchards Dr.
Julian, CA? 92036
619-889-6222
julianappledays.com
Located in northern California’s Humboldt County, this festival is held every October. Visitors can expect plenty of apple sampling, cider tasting, as well as other food-tasting opportunities. This festival delivers an old-fashioned feel down a blocked-off street. The festival is complete with barbecue, fresh apple pies for sale, and live music. Wagons carry visitors from one booth to the next for an easy journey through the festivities from morning to early evening. T-shirts are also sold at the festival so visitors can remember the fun-filled experience.
Fortuna Apple Harvest Festival
735 14th St.
Fortuna, CA 95540
800-426-8166
sunnyfortuna.com
