Apples and Pumpkins: Local Orchards Welcome Autumn 2016

“Fall has always been my favorite season. The time when everything bursts with its last beauty, as if nature had been saving up all year for the grand finale.” ― Lauren DeStefano, Wither

Are you ready for the arrival of fall 2016? We are, especially because of the variety of ways in which this area of Virginia likes to celebrate this season. While Oktoberfest is always a popular way to ring in autumn, two of our local orchards also offer up festivities of their own for your enjoyment:

1. Drumheller’s Orchard Apple Festivals, September 24-25 and October 15-16, 2016: If you want apples, then you’ll get apples—plus a myriad of apple products—at Drumheller’s two Apple Festivals. In the orchard’s own words, “We have apples, apple butter, apple cider, honey, side meat, country hams, cookbooks, pumpkins, baskets, baked goods, etc.” Is your mouth watering yet? Ours certainly is.
   
   
   Photo by Paolo Neo
    
2. Chiles Peach Orchard’s Fall into Fun, September 24-25, 2016: Fresh apple butter, delicious donuts, wagon rides, and more await you at Chiles’ welcome to autumn celebration. This is the time of year when apples and pumpkins dominate flavors and scents, but there’s nothing quite like experiencing the fruit right from the source. During the 5th annual “Fall into Fun” Festival, you’ll have the chance to pick your own ripe, juicy apple like the Jonagold or the Granny Smith. Furthermore, Chiles’ pumpkins are available and are perfect both for carving and for autumnal décor.
   
   
   Photo by EranB
    

 Fall is a beautiful time here in Virginia, and these different festivities are a wonderful way to experience the commencement of the season. (And don’t forget to book your room at Afton Mountain B&B!)