🍎 🍏 EVENT: Apple Tasting at Wilder Ranch Saturday Oct 17
October 17
Event Details:
– Date: Saturday, October 17th
– Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
– Location: Wilder Ranch Heritage Harvest Festival
– Tickets: [Link to Tickets]
If you have ever wanted to sample freshly picked apples or learn which varieties thrive in our local area, this event is for you! Hosted by the Monterey Bay Chapter of the California Rare Fruit Growers as part of the Wilder Ranch State Park Harvest Festival, we will have up to 70 different varieties available to taste—ranging from historic favorites to new locally bred varieties with unique pink flesh.
Admission:
– Individuals: $5
– Couples: $8
– Families: $10
– Volunteers: Free!
New This Year: Take a Number and Enjoy the Festival
Last year, more than half of our 500+ guests arrived between 11:00 AM and noon. This year, whether you want to arrive early or come later, we will have you check in, and take a number. We’ll provide an estimated wait time so you can explore the Harvest Festival rather than standing in line.
If you purchase admission online in advance, you can skip the payment line and go directly to pick up your number.
While you wait, visit our new Community Zone—a place to learn more about apples, connect with fellow fruit enthusiasts, and enjoy activities designed especially for younger visitors. You may also explore the rest of the festival and return as your number approaches.
It is our hope that this new system will allow you to avoid a long line and enjoy more of everything the festival has to offer.
Volunteer Opportunities:
We need volunteers to help cut apples and greet visitors. No prior experience is necessary, as we will provide all the information you need. Volunteers receive free admission and the opportunity to connect with fellow fruit enthusiasts.
To join us, please add your name to the [Volunteer List Link] and register for your free volunteer ticket. Consider volunteering for the late shift, as we are often light on hands after 2 pm.
Upcoming Events Preview:
– November (probably): Persimmon Harvest & Hoshigaki Making (location TBD)
– Nov 14: We’ll have an Apple Tasting booth at Ag History 2nd Saturday (Watsonville Fairgrounds) (contact me directly if you are interested in volunteering for this)
– Nov 21: Persimmons with Andy Mariani (German Hall)
– Dec 12: Holiday Party (Live Oak Grange)
– Feb 6, 2027: Scion Exchange (Soquel High School)
– April 2027: Cherimoya Tasting & Talk (location TBD)
We look forward to seeing you there!
Best regards,
Laura
