In late summer, west county is awash in the scent of fermenting Gravenstein apples, fallen in backyard orchards and forgotten groves. Once known as the Apple Capital of the World, Sebastopol has a 150-year-old relationship with the heirloom varietal, which peaked in the mid-20th century when factories processed fruit from thousands of acres of Sonoma County orchards.
As vineyards moved in, orchards were razed or abandoned — and the fate of the Grav hung in the balance. But thanks to local Slow Food chapters and passionate cider makers, this versatile apple has made a comeback and is now a cherished symbol of Sonoma County’s agricultural legacy.
The annual Gravenstein Apple Fair (Aug. 9-10) at Ragle Ranch Regional Park celebrates all things Grav. Expect apple fritters, pies, cider, candy art — even apple juggling. It’s one of my favorite events of the year.
Focused on local farms and ranches, the fair is a family friendly reminder that Sonoma County is an agricultural wonderland. Plus, who can resist piglet races and a watermelon toss?
New this year
Artisan Tasting Grove: Lounge under shady oaks and sample small-batch cider, cheeses, pastured meats, desserts, and nonalcoholic teas and shrubs from dozens of local producers.
Expanded VIP Experience: A shady lounge, VIP bar and libations tents, prime seating for the music stages — and perhaps most important, luxury restrooms.
Always a hit
Apple Alley: Pies, cakes, fritters, juice, sauce, caramels and fresh-picked Gravs.
Farm Yard: Meet the animals and the people who care for them.
Music Stage: Live indie, bluegrass, hip-hop, jazz and the soulful Love Choir.
Gravenstein Apple Fair: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 9-10. Proceeds benefit Sonoma County Farm Trails. Tickets on sale at gravensteinapplefair.com.
You can reach Dining Editor Heather Irwin at heather.irwin@pressdemocrat.com. Follow Heather on Instagram @biteclubeats.