By Bonnie Adams, Managing Editor
?Northborough – In just a few weeks, Northborough will be celebrating one of its biggest and most anticipated events of the year – Applefest. Organizers are now finalizing the plans for the three-day celebration which will be held Friday, Sept. 19, through Sunday, Sept. 21.
The festival was started in 1991 by a small group of volunteers who aimed to promote the downtown businesses as well as acknowledge the town's agricultural roots. Since that time, it has grown into a beloved weekend extravaganza with participation from local businesses, nonprofits and town groups.
Since a formal Applefest Committee and the Rotary Club of Northborough took over the planning for the weekend several years ago, the festival has grown significantly, Michelle Gillespie, the Applefest Committee chair, said.
“We know everyone is busy, but we would love for them to consider going to as many events as possible that weekend. Many of the vendors and participants give so much back to the community; attending as many events as possible is a great way to show support for them,” she said.
“Donations are welcome and needed,” Gillespie said, “to ensure that we can continue Applefest year to year.”
Donations can be mailed to: Applefest Committee, P.O. Box 216, Northborough, MA 01532
Here is a listing of events by day – go to the website www.northboroughapplefest.com for specific times and more information.
Friday, Sept. 19
Bake-Off, Northborough Senior Center, 119 Bearfoot Road, 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Residents are invited to enter their culinary creations that have apples as a main ingredient.
Senior Luncheon, Northborough Senior Center, 12-1 p.m. Seniors are invited to enjoy a special luncheon for only $6.50.
Children's event – Robert E. Melican Middle School gymnasium, 145 Lincoln St., 6-8 p.m. Sponsored by the Northborough schools PTOs. The entertainment will be announced as the event draws closer.
Saturday, Sept. 20
5k Road Race, Marion E. Zeh Elementary School, 33 Howard St., hosted by Corridor Nine Area Chamber of Commerce. Presenting sponsors are PR Running and the Community Advocate.
Street Fair, ARHS, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., sponsored by the Rotary Club of Northborough. Participants will include vendors, crafters, local businesses and nonprofit groups.
Parade, starting at Lincoln Street at 12 p.m. and ending in front of Northborough Historical Society, 50 Main St.
Apple Pie Café and Craft Fair, Trinity Church, 23 Main St., 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., sponsored by the Northborough Junior Woman's Club.
Roaming Train, ARHS, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., sponsored by Trinity Church. Children and parents are invited to ride on the train for a nominal price.
Sidewalk Book Sale, Northborough Free Library, 34 Main St., 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Northborough Historical Society – Old-fashioned luncheon from 12 to 3 p.m. They will also feature a cookie walk and historical games and crafts.
Chicken BBQ, Vincent F. Picard, American Legion Post 234, 402 W. Main St., 4-6 p.m.
Saturday night BBQ, concert and fireworks, ARHS, 5-9 p.m. A BBQ will be hosted by the Knights of Columbus and Northborough Babe Ruth League.
Sunday, Sept. 21
Boy Scout Troop 1 Pancake Breakfast, American Legion, 7-11 a.m.
Taste of Boroughs, ARHS, 2-4 p.m. Local restaurants will features samples of their cuisines. Tickets are $15 per person or $50 for a family of four.
Classic Car Show, Northboro Shopping Center, 243 W. Main St., 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Northborough Historical Society – Ice cream social from 12 – 2 p.m., with performances by the Northborough Senior Center Harmonica Club from 12-1 p.m. and the Algonquin Regional High School Jazz Band from 1-2 p.m.
On both Saturday and Sunday, the Historical Society's museum will be open from 12-4 p.m. There will also be a display of antique vehicles and tools and an art show and flower arrangements by the Northborough Art Guild and the Garden Club.