After much thought and taking into consideration the risks associated with large gatherings during this uncertain time, the Hilton Apple Fest is postponing its 40th harvest celebration to 2021 out of an abundance of caution for the safety and wellbeing of the Hilton community.
Originally planned for October 3 and 4, this year’s festival committee assessed many variables and safety precautions in canceling the 2020 festival. “This is a painful decision for all of us, but we know that it is the best and safest decision for the health of our community, our vendors, and our attendees,” says Linda Viney, 2020 Hilton Apple Fest Board Chair. Viney has volunteered with the community event since 1995.
Festival organizers emphasize that Apple Fest always operates with the best interest of the community at heart. The festival, a staple of autumn in Rochester since 1981, provides a venue for more than 100 artists and crafters. It also allows dozens of community organizations to fundraise and build awareness for their cause.
The festival itself is an entirely volunteer-run operation, with no paid staff, and donates much of the event’s proceeds to community causes, such as the Hilton Community Food Shelf, youth sports leagues, and scholarships for graduating Hilton High School seniors every year.
Organizers are discussing alternative ways to keep this community focus in motion this year and are optimistic that the next 16 months will bring renewed health and safety, allowing them to focus efforts toward a 40th-anniversary celebration of the Hilton Apple Fest in 2021.
“Thank you to everyone who supports the Apple Fest tradition – and the entire community – each year,” Viney says. “We look forward to a safe and healthful festival in 2021.”
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