Apple Fest draws large crowd
Milford. Games, food, contests, and more could be found at Apple Valley Restaurant.
Milford /
| 29 Oct 2024 | 11:13
The Babizc and Haney families did the whole fair together. (
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The seven pies that were judged on several metrics. (
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Lisa McAteer with Steven Rosado. (
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Saturday, October 26 was a beautiful day in Milford. The sun was shining, the air was crisp, and the mood was festive as huge numbers of people strolled around Apple Valley Restaurant for Apple Fest 2024. The Milford Hospitality Group created this event for families to enjoy a day outside together.
The festival offered a number of events for children and adults, including a pie baking contest, as well as a “pie in the face” event, where the proceeds went to Delaware Valley High School. A trolley ran from Key Food to take people back and forth. In addition, patrons enjoyed apple pressing, donut eating on a string, kids crafts, a kids’ costume parade, and free hay rides. The Scott Weiss Band provided entertainment and the festival had a variety of food concessions (hot dogs, brats, and chicken tenders).
Even people outside of Milford who heard about the event came to check it out. John and Lynn Ed came from Lackawaxen just to hear the Scott Weiss Band. “John Ed said, “We always drive by this place, but never stop. We’re glad we came and we’re going to walk around a bit.”
The pie baking contest grabbed the most attention. Seven pies were submitted, with three winners chosen. This was “serious fun.” First prize included a trophy and $150, second prize was $75, and third prize was $50. Lisa McAteer MC’d the contest and kept everything together with her running commentary. Four judges reviewed the pies on taste, texture, creativity, and appearance.
“The most important thing about the event was that it brought people together,” said Steven Rosado.” “We are trying to build community and Apple Valley really felt like a village today.”
McAteer echoed that sentiment, “This village was meant to hold community events like this. People don’t have to drive for hours find things like this. It’s right here in our community.”
Some of the vendors were hoping this could be a weekly event during the summer. Some people hadn’t seen the new mini-golf course and the ice-cream shop and were glad it was there. There were smiles on people’s faces and it really did bring people together at a much-needed time.