By Liz Nolan, Contributing Writer
Northborough – The Northborough Applefest Committee has already spent months planning for the upcoming fall festival, which will be taking place Thursday, Sept. 15, through Sunday, Sept. 18.
This year Applefest will be tying in with Northborough’s 250th anniversary celebration theme throughout the weekend with events and activities.
According to Applefest Committee Chair Michelle Gillespie, there will be a few changes to the weekend schedule.
This year the parade will not be held Saturday, but Sunday, Sept. 18, from 1 – 3 p.m. Gillespie said the goal is to encourage schools, businesses, organizations and even neighborhoods to create a float for the parade. She also hopes to have at least 10 marching bands participating; some will be hired professional bands.
Although the day of the parade has changed, the route will remain the same. It will step off from Lincoln Street to Main Street (Route 20) and follow through downtown and end on School Street at the Northborough Historical Society building.
The committee is now accepting nominations for the Grand Marshal through Friday, July 15. Nominees must be a Northborough resident who you feel has given back to the community through volunteering efforts. Residents may send their nomination to Applefest, Inc., PO Box 216, Northborough, MA 01532 or email [email protected]. Please include the nominee’s name, your name and address and the reason why your nominee would represent the spirit of the Grand Marshal the best.
The annual classic car show will continue to be on Sunday morning. In addition, participants in the car show are invited to lead the parade this year. Cars will represent different history eras with the oldest cars appearing first.
Applefest is a volunteer-run event, relying on donations from residents and local businesses. Donations can be made via mail or through the online link.
“About $30,000 needs to be raised,” said Gillespie. “This covers the cost of fireworks, Department of Public works, police and fire detail, and the parade.”
Information on all the upcoming Applefest events and how you can donate can be found at www.northboroughapplefest.com, or on their Twitter or Facebook page.
