2025 Hilton Apple Fest logo designed by Sophia Case
A logo design submitted by Hilton native Sophia Case was chosen as the winner of the 2025 Hilton Apple Fest Logo Contest, which seeks a unique new logo to commemorate the fall festival and harvest each year.
Logo Contest winner Sophia Case with Apple Fest board member Jeff Hand.
An avid athlete, Sophia enjoys playing on several Hilton sports teams, from volleyball to bowling, and also loves getting creative, which led her to submit the design featuring a classic wooden cider press to the logo contest.
“When my mom was growing up, her grandparents had a cider press and every year they would make cider,” she shared. “My great-grandparents gifted the press to my family and we have been making cider my whole life.”
Close observers of the Apple Fest’s Apple Pie Baking Contest may also recognize Sophia from her second-place finish in 2023.
When it comes to inspiration for these apple-y endeavors, she reflects on the important role the Apple Fest serves both for the community, and for her friends and family. Trying all the delicious foods and checking out all the cool vendors is a much-anticipated bonus!
This year will be especially memorable for Sophia, with her design adorning a variety of Apple Fest merch, from hand spun ceramic coffee mugs, to t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hoodies.
As a token of appreciation, the Hilton Apple Fest board of directors presented Sophia with a $100 award and a sweatshirt embroidered with her winning logo. Discover more festival tidbits at www.hiltonapplefest.org.
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Hilton Apple Fest awards scholarships to Hilton HS grads
The Hilton Apple Fest is proud to have awarded two 2025 Hilton High School graduates with scholarships in recognition of their volunteer service throughout our community.
Natalie Kiser and Hailey Edmond each received a $500 Hilton Apple Fest scholarship this past spring and are now off to college.
Festival goers can support next year’s scholarship recipients by entering the $500 Visa Gift Card sweepstakes located at the Craft Raffle tent. The drawing will be held on December 2.
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Be kind to your pet
What does a dog think about the Apple Fest?
“Oh boy, we’re going for a walk. Oh no, they are taking me to the Apple Fest with all those feet around me. Well, we’re finally here and it sure smells good. I think I’ll try to snag that little boy’s hot dog. Oh wait, there is another dog eyeing it. He growled at me. Should I give in or put up a fight? They are eating, when is it my turn? I sure could use a drink of water. I’m hot with this coat on. Great, I see a grassy area where I can take care of business. Why is that little girl looking at me and crying? Not for nothing but the music hurts my sensitive ears. I think we’re heading home now so I can take a nap because I’m stressed out and exhausted. If they had left me home in the first place, I could have had my nap already and we could have some play time. Maybe next year I won’t have to go.”
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Hilton Apple Fest features fun, food and festivities for all ages
The village of Hilton is ready to welcome the autumn harvest as the Hilton Apple Fest returns for its 43rd year! With a weekend packed full of fun activities, tasty foods, unique craft vendors, buoyant live musical performances, and a plethora of apple delights, this year’s festival promises to be a celebration to remember.
A Celebration of Community and Tradition
Since its inception in 1981, the Hilton Apple Fest has been a cornerstone of the community, drawing nearly 5,000 visitors each year. The festival is a celebration of the region’s rich agricultural heritage, particularly its bountiful apple harvest. From fresh apples and cider to apple-themed treats, the festival offers something for everyone.
Hilton Apple Fest Board member, Matt Ulakovic, emphasized the event’s importance to the community: “The best part is the meaningful impact we all create by coming together at the Apple Fest. It’s a beautiful thing to see the joy everyone shares on this special weekend.”
Entertainment for All Ages
This year’s festival will feature a diverse lineup of entertainment across four stages. Local and regional musicians will perform throughout the weekend, with acts like Uptown Groove, The Real News, and The Sideburns delighting festivalgoers.
For the younger crowd, the Kids’ Korner is the place to be. Activities include Corey’s Apple Pond, where kids can fish for an apple and win a prize, as well as a climbing rock wall. Magic Joe, Building Families First, and The Happy Pirates will be on hand both days; inviting the kiddos to sing along, bounce to the beat, and discover the surprise of magic.
A Feast for the Senses
Food lovers will find plenty to savor at the Hilton Apple Fest. From walking tacos and meatballs to apple-inspired desserts, more than 20 nonprofit community-based food groups will offer a variety of delicious bites for purchase. St. George’s Episcopal Church will once again serve their world-famous apple sausages.
The Farmers’ Market is another must-visit spot, featuring local growers and vendors offering fresh produce, baked goods, jams and more. Be sure to stock up on goodies from favorites like Zarpentine Farms R&K, Partyka Farms, and Dragon Fly Jams & Jellies.
Artisans and Collectors Galore
A highlight of the Hilton Apple Fest is the craft vendor and artisan market, featuring more than 130 crafters showcasing their handmade creations. From jewelry and pottery to textiles and woodwork, there’s something for everyone. Inside the Hilton Community Center, visitors can explore the Collectors’ Sale, featuring sports memorabilia, toys, comics and more.
Special Events and Contests
This year’s Hilton Apple Fest Auto Show, celebrating the muscle car, will take place on Saturday at the Village Elementary School.
Bakers are invited to showcase their skills in the Apple Pie Contest, with divisions for youth and adults. Judging will take place on Saturday morning, and pies will be evaluated on appearance, taste, and texture.
For photography enthusiasts, the “All the Feels” Photo Contest offers a chance to showcase their talent. Prizes will be awarded in three divisions: adults, teens, and kids.
Plan Your Visit
To make your visit as smooth as possible, free parking is available at Hilton High School, with free shuttle service running every 10 to 15 minutes throughout the weekend – ensuring easy access to the festival grounds.
Whether you’re a longtime attendee or a first-time visitor, the Hilton Apple Fest is the perfect way to celebrate the season and connect with the community. Visit hiltonapplefest.org for more information.
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Photo from Hilton Apple Fest on Facebook.
