Core Values: Apple Fest @ The Plant

Apple Fest celebrates the apple in all its forms—from fresh-picked fruit to cider, brandy, pies, preserves, and more. Join us for an afternoon of tastings, talks, live music, and local makers, with plenty of ways to explore just how much you can do with a good apple.
12pm - Festival Opening Bell
1pm - Apple Pie Competition
Think your apple pie is the best around? Bring your homemade creation and put it to the test! Amateur bakers are invited to compete for prizes, bragging rights, and the title of Apple Fest's best apple pie.
Enter the competition: https://www.theplantnc.com/competitions
2pm - Irish Music in The Wheelhouse
Enjoy an afternoon of traditional Irish music in The Wheelhouse.
2pm - Cider Talk & Tour with Starrlight Mead
Take a behind-the-scenes look at the cider-making process with our on-campus cider and meadmaker, Ben Starr. Learn how fresh apples are pressed and transformed into cider, and get a tour of the process from orchard to glass.
3pm - Live Music: Otis Kings
Head to the main stage for live music from Otis Kings.
4pm - Apple Brandy Opening Day Talk & Tasting
Celebrate the opening of Fair Game's apple brandy with Lyle! Learn how North Carolina apples are transformed into brandy, from fermentation through distillation and aging, then taste the finished spirit.
Garden Tours by Request
Stop by the Little Pond Gardens booth for fresh apples and on-demand garden tours. Ask the team about what's growing and take a closer look at the farm's gardens and growing practices.
Vendor Market
Browse local food, handmade goods, art, and other seasonal finds from makers across the region.
Food & Drink Specials
Explore apple-inspired food and drinks throughout The Plant, from fresh apples and baked goods to cider, apple brandy, preserves, and more.