09/01/2023
It's coming together! Our annual Apple Festival is in the works and gearing up (pun intended) to be the best one yet!
Come to see the gears turn and the 32 foot water wheel show its force as we grind several hundred pounds of corn and gallons of apple cider! The historians will be boiling their apple butter as usual - but this year, do not bring your own jar! They will supply them.
Mill tours will occur on the hour at 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, and 2pm.
The Blue Ball Tavern will be open each day for visitors to view thousands of local artifacts from Perry County.
Jay Smar will be performing "Ol Time Mt Folk Music" on Saturday from 11am-2pm. Sunday's music is still in the works!
Greta from Antur Storytelling will be back at the Butterfly garden again this year, and we will have additional kids' storytime on Sunday as well.
Anvil Artists will be demonstrating blacksmithing, a spinner and weaver will be demonstrating their arts, and the Perry Piecemakers will show off their quilt tying skills. These demonstrations will occur throughout the day on both days. They will likely have goods to purchase as well!
Several art and craft vendors will be available both days for you to find that unique holiday gift for yourself or family!
Educational displays, including live rattlesnakes on Sunday, will be at the stage and outdoor classroom throughout the festival. You can learn about unique antiques of the past with retired educator Paul Fagley, make your own butter to spread on your cornbread, or play with some old-fashioned toys, or explore macroinvertebrates and learn about birds, reptiles, or honey bees. We've got something for everyone!
And of course, some of the best food you can find in the county! So bring your appetite and willingness to learn as we take a step back in time for Apple Fest!
**Service animals are welcome, but please consider leaving pets at home. They do not enjoy crowds as we do. Pets will not be allowed in the tavern or mill. The grounds are not fully ADA accessible, but if you need accommodations, let the park know ahead of time. Some vendors may prefer card payments, but most, including the Friends and Historians, will be cash only. This entire event is FREE, but donations are encouraged! All proceeds benefit the Friends of Little Buffalo, and will be going towards two major projects - our Way Car #12 Restoration project and our new ADA accessible playground!
Volunteers are still welcome to help with some of these activities! If you are interested in helping out, please reach out to the park at 717-567-9255. We hope to see you at the festival!
