Volunteers serving apple samples to guests at the Tasting Tent – Photo by Daniel Mosquin
The 33rd Annual Apple Festival at UBC Botanical Garden welcomed thousands of enthusiastic visitors who embraced the harvest season with smiles, umbrellas, and an unwavering love for apples that remained strong despite the rain. The downpour might have been relentless, but the community spirit shone even brighter, transforming the weekend into a vibrant celebration of local culture, food, and horticulture.
From the moment attendees entered, the scent of apples, freshly baked pies, and seasonal treats filled the air, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience. The festival was alive with activities for all ages, blending tradition with fresh highlights that made this year’s event particularly special.
A Journey Through the Tasting Tent
Guests enjoying the Tasting Tent – Photo by Melody Hou
A must-stop for many, the Tasting Tent buzzed with excitement as guests sampled over 50 apple varieties. This year’s lineup included beloved classics and rare heirlooms, each with its own flavour and texture that celebrated BC’s agricultural heritage. One of the stars of the tasting lineup, the new “Summerland Sunset” apple, surprised and delighted attendees with its crisp, juicy sweetness—and sold out by mid-Saturday! Volunteers and orchardists offered tasting notes, while long-time visitors eagerly compared favourites with newcomers, making this tent a true highlight of the festival.
Culinary Inspiration at the Food Demos
Chef David at the Food Demonstration – Photo by Daniel Mosquin
Despite the rain, the food demonstrations saw a packed crowd as UBC Food Services chefs David Speight and Darren Clay crafted delicious, apple-inspired dishes using seasonal ingredients. Audience members leaned in close to catch every tip, tasting samples as the chefs shared creative recipes that showcased apples as a star ingredient. The crowd was abuzz with inspiration, taking notes and snapping photos to try the recipes at home. Catch a peek of these demos and the recipes in action on our Instagram Reel!
Bagged Apples and Tree Sales
Apple Tree Sales – Photo by Daniel Mosquin
Festival-goers could not resist taking home a piece of the event. The apple and tree sales area was bustling, with families picking from over 40 apple varieties, including the much-anticipated organic and conventional selections. For those interested in growing their own apples, tree saplings were also available accompanied by expert advice on planting and care, deepening everyone’s connection to the local environment.
Vibrant Flavours from Local Vendors
Food Trucks at Apple Festival – Photo by Melody Hou
Food trucks and local vendors rounded out the festival with a fantastic spread of offerings. From apple kettle corn to wood-fired pizzas, grilled cheese, and even ramen, there was something for every taste. A hot apple cider in hand was the perfect way to warm up while browsing the stalls for unique gifts like waxed food covers, cosy accessories, and handcrafted souvenirs. These local businesses brought even more flavour and heart to the celebration.
Joy and Learning in the Children’s Area
Children playing in the leaf pile – Photo by Melody Hou
Children and families found endless entertainment and learning opportunities in the Children’s Area, which brimmed with interactive displays and nature-themed crafts. Kids climbed through leaf piles, explored nature displays, and got hands-on with apple-themed learning activities led by the dedicated SCP team. The area was a haven of creativity, laughter, and discovery, where young minds were inspired to connect with nature and learn about apples, their growth, and sustainability.
A Heartfelt Thanks to Our Volunteers
Volunteer with Apple – Photo by Melody Hou
None of this would have been possible without our extraordinary volunteers. With warm smiles and unwavering dedication, they ensured the festival ran smoothly, guiding guests, sharing knowledge, and embodying the spirit of community. We owe a special thanks to the Friends of the Garden Volunteers, whose support powers not only this festival but also our ongoing programs that inspire horticultural education and environmental stewardship in our community.
UBC Botanical Garden’s Apple Festival has once again shown how a community’s love for local food, nature, and connection can thrive, even on the rainiest of weekends. Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating the magic of apples. We look forward to sharing more memories, more apples, and more community moments with you all next year!
Written by Maha Husain
Thank you for your inquiry. Your question can be directed to our Hortline advice phone number here: https://botanicalgarden.ubc.ca/advice/hortline-garden-advice/
Thank you for your kind words, we are glad that you enjoyed the event. See you next year!
Thank you so much for your kind words, Brenda.
Not sure where to ask. Will try here
A few years ago I bought someGranny Smith and Gravenstein trees from you.
Planted them in my yard in West Van
The first year we had a bumper crop.
The second yearOK but not great.
Yearthree just a few on both varieties.
This year none on either.
Not wanting to plant more unless I can prevent this.
Where to ask?.
Wonderful festival this year despite the rain! Loved the Summerland Sunrise. Great to try some apples varieties. What a wonderful event. Thanks so much!
Tom
Garden Communications wrote an excellent description of the Apple Festival.
I was there for the whole weekend as well as the 2 1/2 days of set up. I am a volunteer and have participated at this event for 13 years. It has rained before and will in future years but we sometimes get good weather which makes it easier but I had fun despite the rain. This recap. perfectly captured the spirit, the joy and the educational value. The fact that we raised money for Garden programs, scholarships and research is a bonus while showcasing the horticulture of B.C. and getting apples and pears, trees, treats and information to many wet visitors while entertaining them also.