Apple Day

Apple Day is an annual celebration of apples and orchards, traditionally held on October 21st. It was initiated by Common Ground in 1990 and has spread to become a worldwide event.

History

Common Ground, a UK-based charity, first established Apple Day in 1990 as a way of highlighting the variety and richness of the UK's apple growing heritage. The event was intended to raise awareness of the genetic diversity of apples and the importance of orchards to the UK's landscape and culture.

The first Apple Day was held in the old Apple Market in London’s Covent Garden and brought fruit to the market after 16 years of absence. It proved such a success that it now takes place in cities and towns across the UK and has even spread abroad.

Celebration

Apple Day events can be large or small, from apple games in a garden to large public events in towns and cities. Activities often include apple identification and tasting, apple-themed games and activities, and the sale of many varieties of apples.

Apple Day is not a fixed calendar event; local communities and organizations are free to hold their Apple Day event on a date that suits them best.

Significance

Apple Day serves to celebrate and demonstrate that apples and orchards are more than just a source of food and drink; they are also a source of community cohesion, a symbol of local distinctiveness, and a repository of biodiversity.

See also

• Apple Festival
• Apple Wassail
• Cider
• Orchard