Apple Fest set for September 28-29

The 45th annual Ruthven Apple Festival is coming to the friendly confines of Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens on September 28-29 weekend and organizers are excited to see all of their hard work come to fruition.

The festival is the premier annual fundraiser for Community Living Essex County and — coupled with the upcoming Jingle Bell Run in November — proceeds go to support over 400 clients and their families in Essex County living with intellectual disabilities.

Community Living Essex County Manager of Communications Tony DeSantis, says this year’s festival will feature a larger vendor area and a children’s zone.

“It’s an exciting time of year for us, said DeSantis. “Our volunteers are working hard.”

The festival kicks off Saturday, September 28 with the vendors and farmers’ market open at 9 am, followed by opening ceremonies at 11 am and annual Apple Peeling Competition held between local dignitaries. Live entertainment starts at 12:30 pm and runs until 5:30 pm.

A classic car show will be featured on Sunday, September 29 from 10-3.

The entertainment lineup this year includes Justin Latam, Harboring Illusions, GB n R with Miss Annette and Bad Moustache on Saturday, with Last Minute, Crystal Gage, Crowbar Hotel, Derick Hearns and Friends and Next Level on Sunday.