Apple Picking near Cartersville for Johnny Appleseed Day

In children’s books, Johnny Appleseed is often portrayed as a fun, historical fellow who wears a cooking pot on his head and disperses apple seeds wherever he travels. Johnny Appleseed Day, celebrated on Sept. 25 each year, celebrates his birth, life, and generosity.

John Chapman, aka Johnny Appleseed, was a Massachusetts-born philosopher and philanthropist, who, beginning in 1802, wandered through northern and Midwestern states planting apple nurseries. His trees fed many settlers, and he was loved wherever he went.

Where do you go for fresh apples and apple cider? Tell us in the comments below.

Now the apple doesn’t fall far from the holiday. Fall brings forth a time for harvest, and apple picking is a fun fall activity that family and friends can do together. 

• Hillcrest Orchards in Ellijay let you pick your own every weekend until Oct. 28.
• Aaron's Apple House on Hwy. 52 East in Ellijay is another family-owned orchar, with apples, cider and more. It's open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.
• Little Bend Orchards is on Tails Creek Road in Ellijay. Call first (706-635-5898).
• R&A Orchards is on Hwy. 52 East in Ellijay, with apples, strawberries and more. Hours from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily.

Local farmers markets are also sure to sell apples, along with other homegrown and organic fall fruits and vegetables.

There are lots of legends and fun tales about the life of Johnny Appleseed, so you can celebrate in many ways. If tossing seeds around a la Johnny isn’t up your alley, and it’s not a good day for apple picking, the next best thing is curling up with a nice glass of homemade apple cider.

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