Donate your 'white elephants' to Cider Fest sale
If you're cleaning out that garage, shed or spare bedroom this fall, the McHenry County Historical Society is seeking donations for its popular "white elephant" sale during this year's Cider Fest.
The sale has become a much-anticipated and pivotal part of the McHenry County Historical Society's fundraising effort. Items range from vintage clothing perfect for Halloween costumes; patio sets and accessories, furniture, new and vintage books, glassware, seasonal merchandise, games, sporting equipment and tables of odds and ends you'll not find anywhere else.
This year's sale runs from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1, in the Schuette Building, next door to the museum. No early birds will be allowed in and checks and cash only will be accepted.
Donations may be dropped off at the historical society museum, 6422 Main St., during regular business hours - 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Do not donate any broken or soiled items, or items that have been recalled or contain hazardous materials.
Also, large appliances, antiquated computers and electronic items, VHS tapes, medical supplies and such child items as cribs, car seats and used stuffed animals will not be accepted. The Society also reserves the right to reject items because of duplication, condition or disposal costs.
Your donations are tax-deductible and will contribute to funding MCHS programs and operations. For information, call (815) 923-2267.
As part of the 40th annual Cider Fest Sunday, Oct. 1, the McHenry County Historical Society will host its fourth annual Apple Bake-off Contest. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. with judging following at 10:30 a.m. in the 1895 West Harmony School. The school is on the museum grounds at 6422 Main St. in Union. Categories are apple pies, apple cakes and apple squares/bars. There is a $2 fee per item.
First-, second- and third-place contestants in each of the three categories will receive ribbons, with a special prize going to the grand champion. All baked goods entered should be in disposable containers or dishes marked with the contestant's name and phone number for pickup after judging.
Entries will be divided and repackaged for sale that day. All proceeds benefit the nonprofit historical society.
About the fest
Cider Fest will take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 1. The itinerary includes live music, a traditional blacksmith, a barn-raising demonstratio and an old-fashioned cider-pressing demonstration throughout the day - using apples donated by Lang's Orchard of Woodstock.
An apple goodies bakery, kettle korn, book and antique clothing sale and food will be available.
The museum, the Gannon 1843 log cabin and 1895 West Harmony one-room school are also open free all day.
For details, visit www.gothistory.org or call (815) 923-2267.