Apple Fest Ushers In Autumn

For more than 50 years, St. Peter's Episcopal Church has sponsored a festival every fall to celebrate the changing seasons and raise funds for its outreach programs. According to Rev. Kurt J. Huber, the church's rector, more than 10 years ago its name was officially changed to "The Apple Festival" since so many of its delicious offerings featured this tasty fruit harvested in abundance throughout New England beginning in September.

"So much of what we were doing was connected to apples," Huber said.

This year, Country Kitchen, which is manned by volunteers from the parish, offers homemade apple and other fruit pies, cookies, baked goods, tarts and jams. Apple Crisp a la mode and apple friets will also be available for purchase. At a booth called Apple Central will have apple cider, caramel apples, fresh apples and other tasty apple treats. 

Volunteer Judy Hamilton said the Apple Crisp is a popular food offering. "It really is delicious," she said. "We sell out of it — as well as all of the pies — every year." The apple friets regularly "disappear" too, she added.

As a way to provide an even larger selection of mouthwatering fare, this year the Apple Festival is making fried Oreo cookies and Twinkies. Though Hamilton admitted that she is not likely to try these sugary confections, she said, "Children will love them."

"We are trying to add different things," Hamilton said.

Because the Festival's egg, cheese and bacon sandwiches were such a draw in the early morning, committee members decided to offer them throughout the day, not just during traditional breakfast hours. Visitors will also be able to get hamburgers, hot dogs and chili dogs from the grille.

For children, there will be two Moonbounces, face painting and games with prizes. Music on Saturday will be provided by City South Steel Drum Orchestra.

Along with the apple-related foods, the Crafts Fair draws visitors to the Apple Festival. Hamilton said this year marks the first time there has been a glass blowing demonstration. On Saturday, artist Richard Clark, of Stratford, and a fellow artist who is visiting from out of town, will work in their tent on the Town Green and answer any questions. Hamilton said, "It's amazing to see what they can do."

There are 60 vendors, including artists representing a variety of different types of craft work exhibiting at the Apple Fest this season. "Some have been coming for years and years," Hamilton added. Representatives from local non-profit organizations will also be on hand to share information about their individual services and programs.

As in previous years, hardy mums and asters will be for sale. There are also raffle drawings for a weekend getaway on Cape Cod, an Apple iTouch, and a handmade quilt.

St. Peter's Episcopal Church's Apple Festival is on Saturday. Sept. 10, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, Sept. 11, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday's church services will be held at 9 a.m. on the Green. "The church bell will be rung to commemorate the 10th anniversary of September 11th," Huber said.

For more information, visit stpetersonthegreen.com.