By Kim Amboy:
Are you someone who enjoys fresh-baked apple pie, slathers apple butter on your breakfast toast, or savors crisp hard cider with charcuterie? Then, apple season must be your favorite time of year! And now that the weather’s cooler and harvest time is in full swing, why not plan a flavorful weekend escape for the whole family? Throughout Shenandoah Valley and Central Virginia, orchards and cideries have ramped up for the yearly stampede of visitors seeking fresh fruit, cider, warm donuts, and good old-time fall fun. Several growers and cidermakers host annual harvest festivals that include live music and allow visitors to enjoy the “pick-your-own” experience, get joyfully jostled on an old-fashioned hay wagon, or become hilariously lost in the labyrinth of a corn maze. Guests will also be able to sample handcrafted libations that each cidery offers for the tasting.
Sound enjoyable? Then gather up your gang and enjoy the scenic drive to a Virginia apple destination of your choice. Not only is it a great way to support Virginia businesses, but you and your loved ones are guaranteed a happy and tasty outdoor adventure!
Fruit Hill Orchard
2745 Thomas Jefferson Parkway, Palmyra, VA
This hidden gem of Central Virginia offers a wide variety of pre-picked and pick-your-own apples, as well as excellent baked goods, apple cider donuts, and a delicious selection of locally produced meats, cheeses, and honey. They also offer a unique bonus attraction…A “Farm Stay Experience” that’s available through Airbnb: rent a splendid 4-bedroom 2-bath home right on the farm for a family getaway, so check their website for details. Come out and meet the people who grow your food!
Shenandoah Apple Harvest Festival
250 Fairgrounds Rd. Clear Brook, VA
This year’s fun-filled schedule includes an Apple Pie-eating Contest, Classic Car/Hot Rod show, live music from top local musicians, and the chance to buy unique and well-made products directly from Virginia’s talented craft artisans. All your favorite fair foods will be available, along with delicious local hard ciders and craft beers. The festival takes place on September 20th and 21st at Frederick County Fairgrounds.
Courthouse Creek Cider
1581 Maidens Road Maidens, VA 23102
Cider connoisseurs drive long distances to sip the mildly sweet, naturally fermented products of this highly rated Cidery. Their fine Virginia ciders are naturally fermented and free from sulfites, chemicals, or artificial colors. Pair them with incredible cheese boards, gluten-free options, and lighter fare on the menu. Featuring live music and comfortable indoor/outdoor seating, nearby Courthouse Creek is truly a worthwhile destination.
Carter Mountain Orchard and Country Store
1435 Carter Mountain Trail, Charlottesville, VA
Located just minutes away from downtown Charlottesville and Monticello, this beloved orchard has it all: apples of many varieties, fresh cider, warm donuts, a market and bakery, and even an online store. Enjoy a Bold Rock Cider in the Taproom on premises, or dinner and an outdoor concert every Thursday night.
Taste of Nelson Fall Festival (Hosted by Blue Toad Hard Cider)
522 Winery Ln, Roseland, VA
Home of the five-acre Blue Ridge Mountain Maze in Nelson County, where visitors can sample local cider, beer, and wine while meandering through the stalks. This is an authentic Farm-to-Tap experience, situated right off Highway 151, offering unlimited tastings, locally sourced food, games, music, and crafts, held on September 20th, with the Cidery and maze open through November 3rd.
Providence Farms Cidery
1315 S. Providence Rd, Richmond, VA
Area residents love this pristine and family-friendly hidden gem situated in the Rockwood area of Chesterfield County. It’s a great place to relax with one of their delicious ciders, ranging from dry to sweet, while enjoying the peaceful outdoor setting that often features live music and food trucks. The cidery has plenty for kids to enjoy, and it’s dog-friendly, too.