The time of year to pick your own apples has come to an end at many of our local apple orchards. But the good news is that now it’s time to do something with all of these delicious apples grown right here in Franklin County. Franklin County Cider Days is coming up soon - the first weekend in November - when the whole region comes together to celebrate all things apple. Despite its name, Cider Days is not just about cider (although don’t worry, there will be plenty of that!), but it is also about all of the other creative ways to use apples and a fun opportunity to learn more about this fascinating fruit.
Local Markets
This year’s Cider Days is happening Friday, November 4th through Sunday, November 6th, 2022, with events all over Franklin County (and even a few beyond!). Local markets and producers of apple products will have their doors open to the public, with many offering discounts and extended shop hours.
Apex Orchards in Shelburne is a great place to find many different varieties of apples for sale, as well as local products like maple syrup, yogurt, cheese, soap, and more. Wells Provisions in Charlemont also has a market offering local items, but one of their main attractions is their restaurant and creamie. Stop by to try their apple cider ice cream sandwich - yum! They’ll also host some special tastings throughout the weekend.
Cider Tastings
Speaking of tastings, there are many ways to get your hands on some tasty cider over the weekend. Artisan Beverage Cooperative in Greenfield is celebrating Cider Days with their famous Valley and Whiskey Cyzers, plus apple-honey wine made with cider from Clarkdale Fruit Farm. They’ll also have their apple cider kombucha.
If you like a nice dry cider, then head to Northfield and try the cider at The Brewery at Four Star Farms. They have a lovely outdoor patio and lawn to enjoy their tasty cider or beer.
Workshops and Demonstrations
If you’re looking to learn about the process of cider making or apples in general, then attend a Cider Days workshop or demonstration. Cameron’s Winery in Northfield will host events all weekend long, including cider press demonstrations and samples on Saturday from 1 to 4 pm.
Clarkdale Fruit Farm in Deerfield will also have a cider pressing demo at 10 am on Saturday and an orchard tour at 11 am. On Sunday at 10 am, Lucy Damkoehler Schulte from Sweet Lucy’s Bakeshop will give a demonstration on baking with apples.
For a full list of all the venues and their Cider Days events, visit ciderdays.org.
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