The 48th Annual LaFayette Apple Festival grounds were bustling Friday with last-day preparations as the two-day event kicks off this weekend. Crews were putting all of the finishing touches and dusting off the grounds after a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic.
Spokesperson Dave Knapp has been part of the fall event since since it began when he was 11 years old — his parents were on the board. Knapp, also a county legislator, said the event is about more than just the fruit.
“Some real basic pony ride, a horse strong wagon ride for the kids, but we also have the mid-ways for kids as well," Knapp said. "Obviously we all talked about the different food we have. We have lots of the outside displays as well.”
Including the one and only, Johnny Appleseed.
The one and only Johnny Appleseed makes his return this weekend @LAF_Apple_Fest! He tells me the apple menu is really tasty! @WAERNews @waer883 pic.twitter.com/H3xNirlvRi
— John Smith (@JSmithWAER) October 8, 2021
Knapp said in order to hold the event responsibly, without on-going concerns of COVID-19, organizers are asking attendees to put on a face covering whenever inside.
“We’re recommending that everyone wear mask in the tent, regardless of the vaccination status, in the tents or in the buildings. Again, most of the grounds and yard are outside, so that won’t be an issue," Knapp said.
The event donates nearly $30,000 annually to nonprofits and school groups. The LaFayette Apple Festival runs Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.