It's Apple Time Again

It's almost apple time. The 43rd Apple Harvest is about to begin on Sept. 30, returning with festival favorites like fritters and fireworks - and some new features as well.

"We're expanding the food venue a little. There'll be some Greek food, sushi and corn on the cob for the first time and we've also got some different vendors this year, everything from MaryKay to home improvement businesses," said Apple Harvest Festival Coordinator Jim Champagne.

Running for two weekends, the first weekend from Sept. 30 - Oct. 2 features food, vendors, carnival rides and events such as the bed race, road race and the parade on Oct. 2.

Headed by this year's grand marshal Lucy Leach, the parade attracts about 35,000 visitors each year, said Champagne. The rain date will be Oct. 8.

A fireworks display will also be held Saturday Oct. 1 at 9 p.m., viewable from the . A rain date has been set for Oct. 8.

The second weekend of the festival is an arts-themed affair, with Harvest the Arts program offering artistic activities for adults and kids, such as a trash sculpture competition, a community mural painting and a free hands-on art workshop.

Another returning favorite will be the Southington Icon singing competition, which features local talent vying for audience votes for the best performer. The will be held this weekend at the .

With about Each year the festival is run by about 300 volunteers, manning booths, working as committee chairs and organizing the festivities.

"We're really fortunate because the volunteers are what makes the festival as successful as it is," Apple Harvest Committee Chairman Christopher Palmieri said. "I think we're going to have a phenomenal festival this year.”

Palmieiri and Champagne agreed the weather is the critical factor in the success. Last year the festival saw six sunny days, and they hope this year will follow suit.

"We can plan everything but the weather, so fingers crossed," Champagne said.

The festival's official kickoff comes in the form of a Festival Gala held at the Manor Inn from 6 - 9 p.m. on Thursday, Sept. 22. Tickets may be purchased at the door or they may be purchased in advance by calling (860) 276-8461.

Opening ceremonies will take place on the town green on Friday, Sept. 30 at 6:30 p.m.