A few years ago, I met a cider-maker who uses only single varieties of apples instead of a blend. He told me that heritage varieties of apple have such a distinct and pure flavor, that they can (and deserve to) shine on their own. This interesting concept really stuck with me. So, when I visited Sonoma County, California, pre-pandemic, and found out that there is a whole fair devoted to a single type of heritage apple, and that the fair is full of charm and old-fashioned fun, I wanted to know more. Back then, I spoke with Carmen Snyder, Farm Trails Executive Director for Sonoma County, and Gravenstein Apple Fair Manager about the apple, the Fair, and about the county’s overall agricultural scene for the Real Food Traveler Podcast. Everything Carmen told us still holds true – it’s just the dates that have changed and some extra fun that’s been added for 2023. In this sponsored post, we tell you what you need to know before you go, so you can make plans to experience the Gravenstein Apple like the locals do as it celebrates its 50th year.

Save this article about the 2023 Gravenstein Apple Fair to Pinteres. Photos courtesy Gravenstein Apple Fair. Graphic by RealFoodTraveler.com.

Hungry for more? Hear this podcast about the Gravenstein Apple Fair experience and history.

Here’s what you need to know about going to the Gravenstein Apple Fair, known as “The Sweetest Fair in Sonoma County”:

When and where is it?

August 12 & 13, 2023; at Ragle Ranch Park in Sebastopol, California.

Gravenstein apples in all their beautiful glory. Photo by Jim Noonan.

What can you expect when you go?

Join Sonoma County Farm Trails as they bring back the beloved Gravenstein Apple Fair, a music festival in a charming park setting, featuring farm-inspired cuisine. The Fair is an annual fundraiser produced by local non-profit Sonoma County Farm Trails. All proceeds support the goal of keeping farms forever in Sonoma County.

“We’re excited to throw the biggest party in our 50-year history,” said Executive Director and Gravenstein Apple Fair Producer, Carmen Snyder. “This year we’re honoring the foresight of our founding farmers and their vision to preserve agriculture in Sonoma County. We’re also delighted to showcase the next generation of inspiring farmers and ranchers who are meeting the moment and cultivating a more resilient food system through regenerative agricultural practices.”

Celebrate this iconic apple with the locals, enjoying the following at this year’s Golden Jubilee:

• Live music from local and regional musical acts.
• Shopping from arts and crafts vendors
• Farm-to-fair food and drink to enjoy including food from area chefs, award-winning wines from Merry Edwards, beer from gold-medal awarded Seismic, pork products from Good Food and James Beard award-winner, Black Piglet plus Slow Food award-winning apple cider from Tilted Shed.
• Adorable farm animals
• Kids’ activities including contests and ag activities, chase giant bubbles and see wandering entertainers.
• Plenty of ways to really experience authentic Gravenstein apples, including in the delicious form of pies, juice, cider, and more.
• Shade structures to help beat the heat.
• Green initiatives expanding on the Fair’s proven commitment to reduce waste.

Hear live music from a variety of local bands suc as Kaitlin Gemma at the Gravenstein Apple Fair. Photo by Kelsey Joy.

Back this year is the VIP Lounge experience with luxury lounge tents with complimentary food and libations, premium views of the music stage, and the change to meet producers in the Artisan Tasting Alley. Proceeds support the nonprofit Farm Trails’ in their mission to keep farms forever in Sonoma County. Get your tickets now.

Hungry for more? Here’s the popular recipe for Gravenstein Apple Fritters.

How can you learn more?

Visit the GravensteinAppleFair.com website for details. And click here for Fair tickets.

Kids can enjoy fun activities at the Gravenstein Apple Fair. Photo courtesy Michelle Feileacan, 2015.

Hungry for more? Plan your trip with this Editor’s Pick itinerary.