Experience the Magic of Autumn: Stafford AppleFest Returns in 2026 for a Day of Apple-Filled Fun!

Get ready, folks! The crisp autumn air in Stafford Springs is about to get even sweeter because the much-loved Stafford AppleFest is making its grand return on Saturday, September 26th, 2026. Picture this: a lively celebration of all things apple, local artistry, delicious food, and that unmistakable, cozy feeling that only fall in New England can bring. You really won't want to miss it!

The festivities are set to kick off at 11 a.m. and will keep going strong until 4 p.m., buzzing all across our charming downtown. You'll find the action centered around the inviting green expanse of Haymarket Common, spilling over into the lovely Hyde Park, lining Main Street, and even gracing the historic grounds of the Stafford Historical Society and Grace Episcopal Church. It's truly a day designed for everyone, a real celebration of everything that makes our community and the autumn season so special.

Wondering what’s in store? Well, imagine a delightful array of homemade seasonal baked goods – think warm apple pies and crumbly treats that just smell like autumn. There will be tons of family activities, plenty to keep the little ones (and the young at heart!) entertained. You can browse through a wonderful selection of artisan vendors showcasing their handcrafted works, discover what our local civic groups are up to, and indulge in an abundance of fall-inspired food and beverages. And for a truly authentic experience, make sure to catch one of the live apple pressing demonstrations. It’s pretty cool to see!

But what's a festival without some tunes, right? We'll have live music throughout the day to set the perfect backdrop for your apple-filled adventures. Keep an ear out for The Natural Disasters, a fantastic local trio who’ll be playing their unique blend of Americana, bluegrass, and roots music from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. And if you're looking for something truly unique, don't miss KatCarves, the incredible chainsaw artist. She’ll be performing live demonstrations, creating amazing sculptures right before your eyes in Hyde Park, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., all thanks to the generous sponsorship of Stafford Veterinary Clinic. You might even catch some acoustic sets from Surely Steven Acoustic!

And oh, the competitions! If you're anything like me, you'll be eyeing up the legendary apple pie-eating contest – though maybe I'll stick to the sidelines for that one, cheering everyone on. There's also a wonderfully quirky donut-on-a-string challenge for both kids and grown-ups over on the Spring Street Bridge, plus some good old-fashioned apple peeling contests happening at Haymarket Common. Serious bragging rights are on the line, my friends!

For those with a rumbling tummy, Grace Episcopal Church will be a must-stop. They’re whipping up a storm with their homemade apple pies, delectable apple crumb, comforting soups, warm lunches, and a variety of refreshing beverages. Seriously, the thought of their pies alone is enough to get me excited!

This fantastic event is proudly brought to you by the Rotary Club of Stafford and the Town's Events & Celebrations Committee, who work tirelessly to make it all happen. Speaking of which, if you’re a local merchant, food vendor, community organization, or business, there's still a chance to be part of the magic! You can apply to participate, but do hurry, as vendor registration closes on September 20, 2026. And hey, the Events & Celebrations Committee is always looking for enthusiastic volunteers to lend a hand and help make the day a smashing success. It's a great way to connect with your community!

So, circle Saturday, September 26th, 2026, on your calendars. Come on down to downtown Stafford Springs, breathe in that crisp autumn air, savor some incredible apple treats, enjoy the lively entertainment, and just soak up the wonderful community spirit. The Stafford AppleFest is truly a celebration of fall, friends, and fantastic memories waiting to be made!