Shop for bargains at McHenry Cider Fest sale

Cleaning out that garage, shed or spare bedroom this fall? The McHenry County Historical Society is seeking donations for its "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 to garden tools; 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. 2, in the Schuette Building, next door to the museum. Those looking for that unique Halloween costume or readying for a school play should make a point of stopping by. Racks of vintage clothing, as well as a myriad other unique accessories and hats are among the treasures priced to move. No early birds. Checks and cash only.

Donations may be dropped off through Thursday, Sept. 29, at the historical society museum, 6422 Main St., during regular business hours of 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Do not bring broken or soiled items, or items that have been recalled or contain hazardous materials.

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.

Apple Bake-off contest

Is grandma's old apple pie recipe melt-in-your-mouth marvelous? Does your apple bars take the cake? Now you have a chance to prove it.

As part of the 39th annual Cider Fest Sunday, Oct. 2, the McHenry County Historical Society will host its third 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, 6422 Main St. in Union.

Categories are apple pies, apple cakes and apple squares/bars. There is a $2 fee per item.

First- to 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.

For information, call (815) 923-2267.