Pick, Press, Sip: Annual Cider Fest Returns Sunday

If you've ever wanted to try your hand at pressing your own apple cider, this weekend is your chance.

On Sunday, Sept. 29, Amherst is holding its annual Cider Festival from noon-5 p.m. at the Lindabury Orchard at the top of Christian Hill. 

This is the fourth cider festival benefitting the orchard, which is run by a group of volunteers known as the Friends of the Orchard. Formerly owned by the late Jack Lindabury before he passed in 2001, the 60-acre property was purchased by The Amherst Land Trust through grants, donations and a warrant article. The Friends of the Orchard was formed to maintain the orchard and improve the property.

This year, for the first time, Cider Fest will feature a pick-your-own event. The ticket price includes an apple bag to be filled, picking right from the tree if you choose. Bring your full bag to wash the apples and then try your hand at pressing them into homemade cider. Each apple bag will generate about a half-gallon of cider. 

Also at Cider Fest, there will be hayrides and kid activities, music, a bake sale featuring pies, cookies and crisps, and apples and pumpkins for sale. Buy your tickets at Moulton's Market (and get them soon as the event often sells out). A family pass is $20 dollars (two adults and kids). 

With what looks to be a beautiful weekend on tap, plan to bring blankets and chairs and spend an afternoon relaxing in the orchard.

Single tickets for $8 for adults or $5 for kids. Tickets can be purchased at Moulton's Market or by emailing ellenchap@gmail.com or call 672-9450.

be sure to bring your blankets and lawn chairs for an afternoon in the orchard!