Hendersonville:

The Apple Capital of North Carolina

Nestled in the heart of North Carolina's Blue Ridge Mountains, Hendersonville proudly stands as the state's premier apple producer, cultivating 80% of North Carolina's apple yield. With a rich heritage dating back to the mid-1700s, the region's apple industry has become a cornerstone of its cultural and economic identity.

Apple Orchards and U-Pick Experiences

Hendersonville's landscape is dotted with numerous family-owned orchards, each offering unique experiences for visitors:

  • Grandad's Apples 'N Such: Spanning over 100 acres, this orchard provides pre-picked apples daily and U-pick options on select weekends. Visitors can also enjoy a pumpkin patch, corn maze, and a variety of baked goods from the country store.
  • Stepp's Hillcrest Orchard: This fourth-generation working farm offers 40 acres of apple orchards with 26 varieties. Activities include a five-acre corn maze, apple cannon, wagon rides, and a farm market.
  • Coston Farm & Apple House: Visitors can enjoy pick-your-own apples, wagon rides through the orchard, and a bakery offering apple pies and fritters. The farm also sells pumpkins, cider, and various gift items.
  • Justus Orchard: A fifth-generation family farm where guests can pick their own apples, pears, and blackberries. The orchard also features a bakery offering fresh apple cider donuts and other treats.
  • Jeter Mountain Farm: With over 400 acres, this multigenerational farm offers 19 apple varieties for picking, a hard cider taproom, in-house BBQ, and live bluegrass music, making it a must-visit destination.

North Carolina Apple Festival

Celebrating the region's apple heritage, the North Carolina Apple Festival is held annually over Labor Day weekend in downtown Hendersonville.

The festival features a street fair, arts and crafts, live music, children's activities, and the King Apple Parade. It's a family-friendly event that has been Western North Carolina's premier festival for over 70 years.

Apple Varieties and Harvest Season

Hendersonville's orchards cultivate a diverse range of apple varieties, each ripening at different times throughout the season:

  • Early Season (August - September): Gala, Honeycrisp, Ginger Gold.
  • Mid-Season (September - October): Fuji, Jonagold, Golden Delicious.
  • Late Season (October - November): Pink Lady, Granny Smith, Arkansas Black.

This staggered harvest schedule ensures a continuous supply of fresh apples from late summer into fall.

Apple Products and Culinary Delights

Beyond fresh apples, Hendersonville's orchards and markets offer a plethora of apple-based products:

  • Apple Cider: Freshly pressed and often available in both sweet and hard varieties.
  • Baked Goods: Apple pies, fritters, donuts, and breads are staples in local bakeries.
  • Preserves and Butters: Homemade apple butter, jams, and jellies capture the essence of the harvest.
  • Culinary Events: During the Apple Festival, many local restaurants incorporate special apple-themed dishes into their menus, showcasing the fruit's versatility.

Planning Your Visit

When planning a visit to Hendersonville's apple orchards or the Apple Festival, consider the following tips:

  • Seasonality: While the apple season typically runs from August to November, specific varieties have different peak times.
  • Activities: Many orchards offer additional attractions such as corn mazes, hayrides, and petting zoos, making them ideal for family outings.
  • Events: The North Carolina Apple Festival is a highlight of the season, offering a range of activities and entertainment for all ages.

Embracing its title as the Apple Capital of North Carolina, Hendersonville offers visitors a rich tapestry of experiences centered around this beloved fruit. From hands-on orchard visits to festive celebrations, the region provides a delightful immersion into its apple heritage.