63rd Annual NC Apple Festival Had Record Attendance

The 63rd annual NC APPLE FESTIVAL HAD RECORD ATTENDANCE this past weekend in Hendersonville. The total numbers aren't in yet, but the feeling among the vendors was that the crowds were larger and their profits were bigger than in years past. Everything from home-churned apple ice cream to fried apple pies and caramel apples were offered up for sale. The streets were packed with vendors selling unique handmade crafts in between the apple grower's booths.

North Carolina ranks seventh in apple production in the United States and Henderson County produces the most. Hail, too much rain, frost and the spring freezes took a bite out of the apple crop. The yield this year is down about 40% but the apples overall are sweeter and bigger because of it.

The crowds enjoyed live music throughout the four-day event at the Historic Henderson County Courthouse that was completely renovated in recent years and is now a museum for all to enjoy. Downtown Hendersonville comes alive during the summer months with Music on Main and Monday Night Street Dances.

The rest of the year there are car shows, gallery strolls and antique shows as well as other events to bring people downtown. You never know who will show up. Even Elvis (Impersonators) occasionally visit to perform.

If you missed this year's NC Apple Festival, make plans to attend next year. It's held every year on Labor Day Weekend in downtown Hendersonville.

What was your favorite thing about this year's Apple Festival? Food? Music? Crafts?