Celebrate all Things Cider at Ciderfest!

Cider has deep roots in American history. In colonial times, hard cider was by far the most popular alcoholic beverage, far more than whiskey, wine, or beer. Apple orchards were planted throughout the states, not for eating but for making cider. Many small farms grew cider apples and produced cider, sometimes supplementing farm worker wages with the fermented product.

Why cider lost popularity in the US is up for scholarly debate, but as more people look to eat local, support sustainable agriculture and help small farms grow artisan crafted local ciders are growing in popularity. Vashon is home to many small farms, specialty orchards and talented cider makers. Even the casual gardener has apple and pear trees growing in their yards and probably has a cider press in the garage.

Join us on Saturday October 1st for Vashon’s CiderFest as the Vashon community celebrates of all things cider!
The day will be filled with fun events, exhibits and treats for all ages.  Some of the planned activities are:

Saturday Farmer’s Market
10 AM to 2 PM at the Village Green

FRESH CIDER PRESSING!
11 AM to 4 PM at Vashon Village across from the Vashon Library in front of the Lodges on Vashon, 17205 Vashon Hwy SW, . The Vashon Island Fruit Club will be pressing apples for fresh cider (1/2 gallons for sale while supplies last).  Also for sale:  apple crisps & cups of hot mulled cider.  A kiddie press will be available for the kids to press their own cider.  The Fruit Club will be taking orders for fruit trees that grow well on Vashon Island.  Delivery dates in November and March.  Also, experts will be on hand to help you identify any “mysterious” apples you may have on your property.  Bring at least 2 or 3 of each variety for proper ID.  

FIRE & RESCUE OPEN HOUSE!
10 AM to 2 PM. Fire Station 55 at 10020 SW Bank Rd. Stop by Vashon Island Fire and Rescue will have their Annual Family Open House at Fire Station 55. Stop by to visit with local Fire & Rescue staff, enjoy, hot dogs, bouncy houses, fire trucks, an, air lift demonstration and other fun activities.

NASHI ORCHARDS TASTING ROOM & ORCHARD TOUR!
Tours at Noon, 1 PM & 2 PM
25407 Wax Orchard Road SW
Take a tour of Nashi Orchards to see what makes their Perry so special.

DRAGON’S HEAD TASTING ROOM & ORCHARD TOURS!
Tours at Noon, 1 PM & 2 PM
18201 107th Ave SW
Tour the orchards of Vashon’s own Dragon’s Head Cider!

VASHON CIDER TASTING! 4 PM to 8 PM at The Lodges on Vashon Pavillion
17205 Vashon Hwy SW
Vashon Island Growers Association will running the Hard Cider tasting featuring local and regional ciders. Music, food, and hard Cider!

Look for CIDERFEST SPECIALS at local restaurants, galleries and stores!