The 23rd annual Maine Apple Sunday, organized by the Maine State Pomological Society, will be held on September 17, 2023 to celebrate the peak of the state’s apple harvest. Be sure to visit participating orchards throughout Maine as the beautiful autumn season is nearly upon us.
Orchards will open their doors for apple picking and other activities and you can be sure apples and a variety of apple products will be offered and on sale.
Several Real Maine member orchards will be participating in Maine Apple Sunday this year. For a full list, go to www.maineapples.org/events/. Here is what you can expect at a few:
At Boothby’s Orchard and Farm in Livermore, there will be:
- Easy, accessible apple picking
- Free wagon rides to the pondside orchard
- $5 wine tastings in the orchard
- Cheese and cider samples (while they last)
- Opportunities walk through the vineyard
At Spiller Farm in Wells, there will be:
- Farm tour wagon rides
- Fresh corn on the cob
- A Model A car on display
- A picnic/play area with a retired farm tractor for pictures, cornhole game, goats and roosters, and a small covered bridge and sand pile for children
Apples have been grown in Maine for more than 400 years. According to the Maine Pomological Society, there are well over 100 varieties of apples currently grown in Maine, but most farms grow 20 to 30 varieties. Eighty-four farms, on 2,000 acres, produce about one million bushels of apples each year in Maine.
TIPS FOR WHEN YOU VISIT MAINE FARMS:
- Check listings for hours, schedules, and updates
- Follow farm rules. Stay in visitor areas, stick to established trails and roads, and avoid tailgating farm machinery.
- Keep pets at home
- Bring an insulated container when you shop – keep cold foods cold and hot foods hot for quality and freshness
- Always clean fresh produce before eating and preparing
- Plan to carry out any trash and recyclables
- Help keep farms healthy — stay home if sick or not feeling well. Use good hygiene before, during, and after visit.
- Be weather wise, dress appropriately, and know your personal limits
Ask farmers how to enjoy Maine farm products year-round!
Real Maine is the state’s official agriculture and agritourism promotions program. From apples to apple cider to apple cider donuts, plan your Real Maine fall agricultural experience. Visit www.RealMaine.com to connect to farms, food, and agriculture throughout Maine.
