ChristineIt’s always a bit sad to have to say goodbye to summer but the upside to it is that Fall is on it’s way, in all its colorful glory. And one of the fun things about the fall is of course apple picking. Just about every state has some form of pick your own apple farms.
There’s nothing like getting out in the country with your family and friends and spending the day in the apple orchards. Of course with that often comes sampling homemade doughnuts and apple cider.
Don’t forget there’s also a range of other things to do while you are out there. Puppet shows, baby animal petting zoos, games, hay rides, mini-villages and towns for kids to play in. There’s always something to do at the orchard besides just picking apples.
Here are some tips to make your trip the best it can be.
1) Check the hours of the orchard. Also it’s a good idea to check their websites for updates on when the apples will be ready.
2) Leave the pets at home. There are usually a lot of people and not every facility is pet friendly. It’s best to leave the pup at home.
3) Don’t eat the apples in the fields. The orchards make their money once a year on apple picking and they work hard to make it a great experience for you. Don’t cheat them. Make sure to bring your apples back for weighing, then wash them and chow down.
4) Line up the recipes. You will never be able to eat all the apples that you pick whole. You will of course, pick far more apples than you need, if there are any kids involved in the process. Plan to do some apple pie baking. Apple sauce is a great idea.
5) Make it a tradition. Kids look forward to annual expeditions with you. It’s an adventure your family will always remember.
For the best places to go apple picking, check out this list.
Varieties of apples and seasons vary
Places to Apple Pick in New York Area
New York season usually starts after labor day and ends in October. Don’t wait until Halloween, there’s usually not much left on the trees by them.
Picking apples in Massachusetts
September to mid October marks the peak of apple picking season in Massachusetts
Pick your own apples in California
New England doesn’t get to have all the Fall fun, so too do the left coast dwellers. Sept to October is prime season for apple picking.
Apple Picking in the Oak Glen Area
Here’s a video that explains how to pick the best, healthiest apples.
