Despite uncertain weather from the remnants of Tropical Storm Ian, the 43rd Brushy Mountain Apple Festival was staged Saturday in downtown North Wilkesboro.
The crowds and vendors were significantly smaller than previous years, but many attendees were relieved the celebration of local apple orchards could be held at all, after two years of canceled festivals due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“With a tremendous amount of uncertainty leading up to the 2022 Brushy Mountain Apple Festival today we must say that it turned out to be a great day,” said a spokesperson from the Brushy Mountain Ruritan Club, who puts on the festival.
“Thank you to everyone who came out to support the Brushy Mountains, the vendors, and our apple heritage. We understand the frustration that can come from unknown weather conditions and appreciate the patience shown from everyone involved in making the festival happen this year.
“It was not the grand comeback we had hoped for after missing the last couple of years but with the help of each visitor and patron we were able to make the absolute best out of it. Another safe and successful year in the books and we can’t wait to see you again next year.”
Originally forecasted to dump several inches of rain on the festival throughout the day Saturday, the storm bands from Ian moved through faster than expected and were more concentrated in the eastern parts of the state.
Conditions were cool but dry when the festival opened at 8 a.m. and the rain held off until the close at 5 p.m.
The uncertainty of the weather forecast prompted many vendors to not set up their booths this year. Also, as a safety precaution, all music stages and other forms of entertainment were canceled on Saturday.
The club, in accordance with its vendor policies and contracts, refunded vendors that chose to not participate in Saturday’s festival or rolled over their payment to next year’s festival.
Over 150 vendors set up, including Brushy Mountain Farm and Orchard (Tom Lowe), Apple Delights, MopHead Merch and Munchies, Blue Ridge Opportunity Commission Inc., Seasons Inspirations, Romesburg Family Farm, Wilkes Chamber of Commerce and Alwaysafternoon Jewelry & Art.
A representative of Brushy Mountain Custom Woodworks spoke for many when they said, “As we come to a close on the Brushy Mountain Apple Festival we are so appreciative to those who came and enjoyed it with us. There was fair weather and we had a great time. Can’t wait for next year.”
Jule and Laura Hubbard served as festival marshals this year.
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