There are many apple festivals going on around the state right now. Since Ted and I will be busy this coming weekend, we decided to spend a day in Ithaca last Saturday.
It was the 31st edition of the Great Downtown Ithaca Apple Harvest Festival. It was held from Friday, Oct. 4 through Sunday Oct. 6. The streets from the 100 W. block of State Street to the Commons east toward Cornell University were full of people, vendors, artists, and game booths for kids. Even the ugly construction down the middle of the main road didn’t ruin the fun.
There were a lot of jewelry vendors and ornament crafts such as the “Bugs” pictured above.
We spent most of our time along the road where wine, beer, and apples were being sold and tastings were welcomed.
After the purchase of our apples, two bottles of beer, and some all natural dog biscuits, we watched the tribal dancers.
They welcomed folks to join in. We abstained because by this time, tummies were growling. The smell of all that food was getting to us. We opted for Simeon’s Bistro and Oyster House.
An excellent menu made it tough to decide. Since we were so hungry (it was about 1:15 by this time), I was ready for a little bit of everything.
Ted enjoyed a classic burger and I chowed down a huge ahi tuna burger.
The weather was perfect and the rain held off until we were in the car, driving home.
Our big catch of the day? Why apple of course!
Macoun apples. Firm, juicy and sweet.
I had expected most of the focus around the festival to be apples. It WAS called the Apple Harvest Festival. Apart from a few tables selling apples and one vendor selling baked goods, it was mostly jewelry. A little disappointed but we did have a nice drive and it was a good way to rest up before our longer training runs on Sunday. Last semi-long before hitting the streets of Chicago.
Have you picked apples yet this year?
We tried to pick apples last weekend but it rained. 🙁
We still bought apples from the store, though – I can’t wait to make applesauce this weekend!