Apple Festival holds bushels of fun

LIMA - The 21st Annual Apple Festival has the potential to be a bushel of fun for local families looking for apple-themed activities and food.

Sponsored by the Johnny Appleseed Metropolitan Parks District, the event is Saturday and Sunday at the Allen County Farm Park, on the corner of Slabtown Road and state Route 81.

"It's a nice family afternoon," said Anne Bowman, administrative assistant for the park district.

Local bands Vernon McIntyre's Appalachian Grass and the Spanky Moore Band will entertain festival-goers and kids will be kept plenty busy with a petting zoo, tractor and horse-drawn wagon rides and pony rides, Bowman said.

An apple-eating contest, sack races, hoop rolling and crafts will keep the interest of the young. A new activity, called a "gem sluice," will let children mine for gems, Bowman said.

For older fans of the apple, there will be apple cider and apple-butter making demonstrations on both days and Bowman said apple pies can be submitted Saturday morning for an apple pie contest. The cider, butter, apples, caramel apples, apple desserts and more will be for sale. Non-apple food - meaning chicken dinners - will also be available.

About 5,000 people are expected over the weekend. Admission and parking are free.

WHAT: Apple Festival

WHEN: Noon to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

WHERE: Allen County Farm Park, corner of Slabtown Road and state Route 81

COST: Free

FOR MORE INFO: 419-221-1232