Visitors to the 47th annual Cider Fest will get an opportunity to step back in time with skilled artisans, an interactive barn-raising demonstration, a fall mum sale, children’s fall activities, a family magic show performed by Magician Kevin Sarnwick, festive music by Bob Hoge Band, and a vintage history book sale. Flintknapper Richard Hamilton and blacksmith Sam Johnson will anchor this year’s historic demonstrations at the McHenry County History Museum in Union from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 6.

Enjoy hot cider, cider donuts, caramel apples, and baked treats from Morke’s Chocolates of Huntley, popcorn snacks from Lincoln Land Kettle Corn, and lunch from our food vendors. Take a tour of the 1843 Gannon family log cabin and 1895 West Harmony one-room school and snap a photo at our fall-themed selfie station featuring a turn-of-the-century cider press.

Show off your best apple recipe at our annual Apple Bake-off Contest for a chance to earn first-place bragging rights in each category or even the overall grand champion title! Apple Bake-off categories include:
• Apple Pie
• Apple Cake/Cupcakes
• Apple Bread/Muffins
• Apple Bars/Cookie

Registration begins at 10:00 a.m., with judging at 10:30 a.m. All baked goods entered should be in disposable containers or dishes marked with the contestant’s name and phone number for pickup after judging. Entries will be divided and repackaged for sale at our bake sale.