Peru Applefest marks 45th year on Sept. 16

PERU | The red-laden branches of apple trees throughout the Champlain Valley are a ready sign that it's time for the Peru Applefest. An annual event that reaches back 45 years, it's a day to celebrate harvest and community John Ryan is Applefest Chairman. "The Applefest started as a fundraiser for St. Augustine's School. Peru and neighboring towns gave us support then and they still are," he said in a recent email. "The Applefest Committee has been meeting since April to organize a great community celebration. Several younger people with great ideas joined our committee. They're coming up with great activities that people will enjoy." The annual parade that sets afoot at 11 a.m. at Peru Central School is a local favorite, bringing farmers and youth, bagpipes, fifes and area businesses out for a roll through town. But the craft fair, food booths, games and live music sustain the afternoon, which welcomes hundreds to St. Augustine's Parish Center and lawns. Following the parade, the Plattsburgh Fife and Drum Corps, the SUNY Plattsburgh Gospel Choir and the On Three Band will perform at the Applefest stage. And the chicken barbecue should be ready to be served. Food vendors with hamburgers, Michigans, fried dough, hot dogs and sausage and peppers will also be on hand. The giant craft fair brings in vendors and artisans from all around the North Country. But apples are central to Applefest and their tart sweetness makes its way into many festival treats. "When I distributed posters at local stores, the most common comment I heard was, 'I can't wait to eat one of your apple fritters!'" Ryan said. Preparations are in place to share apple-time fun and camaraderie, and it takes a village. "It takes at least 80 volunteers to host the Applefest," Ryan said. "We're very grateful to all our volunteers and to the local business community that's been so supportive for so many years." The grounds at St. Augustine's on Main Street in Peru open at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 16, for the 45th annual Applefest. There are lots of kids' games of skill and chance and rides for youngsters, along with a Grand Raffle, pull-tabs and an antique train ride. All are welcome.

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Peru Applefest marks 45th year on Sept. 16

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