As a fifth year student at Ithaca College, I’ve certainly experienced my fair share of Ithaca Festivals. Apple Fest, which typically takes place over the last weekend in September, is arguably the most beloved festival held in Ithaca by college students and townies alike. Apple Fest is a weekend long fiesta held in the Ithaca Commons which celebrates the beginning of the fall season, as well as brings the community together to support local businesses! Of course, most vendors have a variety of apple products (the fruit, not the overpriced technology) for sampling and purchase, but there are plenty of vendors so, if for some reason you happen to hate apples, you’re sure to find something else that will tickle your fancy! Jokes aside, Apple Fest is an important community event which I would urge you to attend as you are able. However, there are some important tips for survival that a veteran, such as myself, must bestow upon Apple Fest virgins.
Dress in Layers!
When it comes to fall in Ithaca, the only thing you can count on is that the weather is unpredictable. Be sure to dress warmly, in layers, so that as the day gets warmer you can shed some layers and be more comfortable!
Wear Sensible Shoes!
As tempting as it is to wear those new fall boots out on the commons to show off to friends and strangers alike, trust me!! Apple Fest is not the time or place to break in new kicks. As much as last year’s boots or a dorky pair of sneakers might cramp your style, your feet will thank you later.
Have Cash on Hand
Credit cards or debit cards are definitely my preferred form of payment, as I’m sure most of you will agree, but most (all?) vendors will not be able to accept card payments! There are a few conveniently located ATMs downtown, but it is probably in your best interest to take out money beforehand – no waiting in lines!
Don’t Drive
If there is one survival tip you actually follow, please make it this one! Seriously. Parking in Downtown Ithaca is no easy feat on a regular weekend, so you can bet it’ll be a warzone on a festival weekend. If you must drive, carpool! But there are so many other means of transportation. The TCAT, for example, makes round trips from campus to the commons twice every hour. Or, for those more adventurous, walking down the hill to the Commons on a nice fall day is actually pretty enjoyable! (Yeah, climbing back up is undesirable at best, but you can always hop on a TCAT or take a cab!)
See Everything
There are so many vendors to see, and so many different local goods to peruse. If you’re like me then chances are you can’t actually afford any of it…. But that doesn’t mean it isn’t fun to look at! That being said, it is also important to practice your most convincing “I’ll have to come back later!” line when trying to escape the vendor who won’t let you leave without buying anything.
*For Those of Age* Taste the Wine!
The Finger Lakes is one of the best wine locations in the country! Many wineries will have booths set up with samples. Some are free, and some may charge a few dollars, but they’re all delicious! And, trust me on this one, walking around slightly buzzed is both entertaining and enjoyable (not to mention a good way to stay warm if it’s chilly and you forgot your layers!).
Make Sure to Pet the Goats!
Every year a local farm will bring some of their smaller animals for a mini petting zoo. Sure, this is mostly for little kids, but who doesn’t love goats?! They’re a staple of this festival, so be sure to appreciate them!
Buy Something
It seems obvious to do this, but in the interest of saving money or calories it sometimes gets forgotten. Caramel apples, apple pie, apple crisp, hot apple cider, the list goes on! This is a festival to celebrate apples, so indulge! If need be, go halvsies with your friends!
Take an Instagram-Worthy Selfie
Did you really go to Apple Fest if you didn’t capture and post photographic evidence if it!? No, you probably didn’t.
Last but not Least, Have Fun!
I don’t think this tip requires much explanation.
Now, grab your favorite flannel, your entire squad, and your ID (if valid and legal) and get yourself to Apple Fest!