Franklin County CiderDays returns for its 31st anniversary from October 31 through November 2, 2025, offering a robust celebration of everything apple throughout western Massachusetts. This annual tradition attracts cider enthusiasts, families, and newcomers alike to the picturesque “413” region for an unforgettable autumn weekend filled with local flavor and spirited community energy.
What Is CiderDays?
CiderDays is renowned across New England as a welcoming, county-wide festival dedicated to the craft and culture of cider making. Set among the valley towns of Greenfield, Deerfield, and Turners Falls to the scenic highlands of Buckland, Shelburne Falls, Colrain, and Heath, the event turns Franklin County into a vibrant hub for cider lovers, home growers, orchardists, and anyone looking to savor the bounty of the season.
Tastings and Tours
Throughout the weekend, regional cideries and orchards open their doors for tours that showcase the unique charm and expertise behind Franklin County’s celebrated beverages. Attendees can enjoy tastings of both hard and sweet ciders, including exclusive small-batch and specialty pours at cider houses, farm markets, and historic orchards. Many stops feature live demonstrations, where visitors learn about the art and science of cidermaking, from pressing apples to fermentation and flavor blending.
Workshops and Exhibitions
CiderDays offers a range of educational events for guests of all interest levels. Workshops provide hands-on opportunities for aspiring cider makers and orchard enthusiasts, covering everything from selecting apple varieties and starting your own orchard to perfecting home fermentation techniques. Meanwhile, engaging exhibitions delve into apple history, sustainable agriculture, and the traditions that shape Franklin County’s rural communities. These sessions, held at various venues throughout the area, foster learning and conviviality while supporting local agriculture.
CiderDays Amateur Cider Competition
A highlight of the weekend, the CiderDays Amateur Cider Competition invites home cidermakers from across the region to showcase their best batches. This year’s entries will be collected at Raven Books in the Mill at Shelburne Falls on Saturday, November 2. The competition celebrates amateur talent and encourages experimentation, innovation, and camaraderie among participants. It’s also an ideal way for newcomers to explore their skills, network with seasoned makers, and possibly earn recognition for their craft.
Additional Attractions and Attendance Details
Most CiderDays activities are free to the public, providing broad access to both casual strollers and dedicated cider aficionados. Some scheduled programming, however, does require advance registration and tickets, making it easy for guests to tailor their experience to personal interests. With events distributed across Franklin County’s diverse towns, CiderDays highlights the region’s unique hospitality and scenic beauty—perfect for community members, prospective homebuyers, and autumn visitors alike.
Find more information at ciderdays.org.
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