The UBC Botanical Garden Apple Festival marks its 20th anniversary this year with organizers bringing in more than 37,000 pounds of apples including 9,000 pounds of organic fruit from local suppliers. More than 70 varieties of heritage, new and “tried and true” apples are available, grown both conventionally and organically. These include the heritage apple ‘Grimes Golden’, and ‘Ambrosia’, recently discovered in Cawston, B.C.
Also available for sale are many varieties of apple trees grafted onto dwarfing root stock, ideal for the home garden or patio.
Festival activities include:
- Apple tasting ($3) of 60 varieties of new and heritage B.C. grown apples
- The Vancouver Island-based BC Fruit Testers Association will display nearly 200 B.C. grown varieties and give demonstrations of grafting and cider-pressing. Bring varieties from your garden to be identified (six from each variety)
- Master gardeners discuss apple-related diseases and pest management.
- Johnny Appleseed Orchard children’s area will have six activity stations. Apple pie, hot apple cider and other delectable treats available.
- Craft vendors, UBC Herbarium merchandise and UBC Farm produce on-site
- Buskers throughout the day and musical entertainment in the Roseline Sturdy Amphitheatre at 1 p.m. daily.
Date: Oct. 16 and 17
Time: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Place: Grounds of Botanical Garden: 6804 SW Marine Drive (at 16th Ave.)
Info: Adults $2, under 12 free. Free bike parking. Dogs are not permitted in the Gardens.
Call 604.822.4529 or visit http://www.ubcbotanicalgarden.org/events/applefest.php
