Fall flavor: Apple Fest returns to Long Grove Sept. 20-22

Posted September 11, 2024 1:53 pm

Submitted by Jody Grimaldi

Are you up for some competitive apple pie eating? Apple Fest runs Sept. 20-22 in downtown Long Grove. Courtesy of Historic Downtown Long Grove Business Association

Long Grove’s annual tribute to apple season returns next week, featuring a variety of apple-centric treats along with entertainment and family fun.

Long Grove Apple Fest runs from noon to 11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20; 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 22, in downtown Long Grove, 145 Old McHenry Road.

Admission is $5 per person, per day, or $10 for a three-day pass.

For information and tickets, visit longgrove.org/festivals/apple-fest.

The 2024 edition includes dozens of vendors doling out apple delicacies, as well as specialty apple-themed items featured on hometown restaurant menus. As always, there will be live music stages in multiple areas, activities, and a classic carnival.

Usher summer out on a sweet note at Long Grove’s Apple Fest Sept. 20-22. Courtesy of Apple Fest

The heart of Apple Fest is centered on locally made, apple-inspired foods and beverages. Over the three-day weekend, revelers can choose from a wide-selection of creative options served al fresco on the Apple Fest strip along Robert Parker Coffin Road or within participating restaurants.

Every ticket includes the option to participate in apple pie-eating and apple bobbing contests, arts and crafts, and access to a classic carnival with thrill rides and games.

Besides apples, the biggest draw at Apple Fest is the live entertainment, playing continuously on three stages spread out throughout town. Visitors can check out local solo artists on the Mill Pond stage, family draws at the Fountain Square, and some of Chicago’s most well-known tribute and party bands on the Main Stage.

7th heaven will perform at 9 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 21, at Long Grove Apple Fest. Courtesy of Glen Ellyn Chamber of Commerce

This year’s main stage schedule is as follows:

Friday, Sept. 20

Noon to 2 p.m., Joe Fascetta Duo

2:30-4 p.m., Lara Bell Band

4:30-5:5:50 p.m., Pipe Dream

6:30-8:20 p.m., Midnight Rider, Allman Brothers tribute

9-11: p.m., LynSkynyrd Tribute, Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute

Saturday, Sept. 21

Noon to 2 p.m., Kevin Mileski

2:30-4 p.m., South of Disorder, Jimmy Buffett tribute

4:30-6 p.m., Deadfest

6:30-8:20 p.m., Beyond the Blonde

9-11 p.m., 7th heaven

Sunday, Sept. 22:

Noon to 1 p.m., BOTB Winner

1:30-3:15 p.m., Chicken Dolphin

4-6 p.m., American English, The Beatles tribute

Apple Fest is an opportunity to explore historic downtown Long Grove and enjoy family-owned shops, boutiques, restaurants, wine bars, breweries, and small-town hospitality. Apple Fest marks the beginning of the fall shopping season, with local merchants rolling out specials and deals.

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