It’s apple season and Langley knows how to make the most out of it – Aldergrove Star

Local farmers in Langley are once again gearing up for one of the community’s most famous historic festivals.

Fruit lovers are excited for the 17th Heritage Apple Day, and Thanksgiving themes just added extra flavors.

Organized by Derby Reach and the Brae Island Park Association (DRBIPA), this apple-themed event tells the long history of the apple in Langley – beginning in the early 19th century when the Royal Engineers planted European varieties along the banks of the Fraser River in Derby Reach Regional planted park.

Annually, around 900 people attend this free, family-friendly event to delve deep into Langley’s farming history with the help of historians and storytellers.

There will of course be plenty of opportunities to taste and peel the fresh apples, but people can also enjoy crafts, interactive demonstrations, violinists and tours. Attendees will also have the opportunity to talk to historians and ask curious questions.

Tony Markin, the chairman of the board, urged everyone to come out and celebrate local heritage, nature and apples.

“We have some new exhibitors this year and many interesting tours and speakers that everyone can enjoy,” he said.

This year’s event, returning after a COVID hiatus, is larger and features Indigenous elders like Karen Gabriel of Kwantlen First Nation, who will share her farming knowledge.

The annual event had to be canceled last year, and Markin said the park association looks forward to hosting this event in person again.

Those interested in the art of rope-making can weave alongside historian Marcy Lui as she demonstrates her rope-making skills using plant fibers. For those looking to up their game, the BC Fruit Testers Association will have an information booth to educate people about apples.

As in the past, community groups such as the Langley Field Naturalists, Langley Environmental Partners Society, Fraser River Discovery Centre, Langley Rotary, Metro Vancouver Regional Parks and the MVRP Foundation are invited to Heritage Apple Day 2022.

The three-hour outdoor event begins at 11am with a guided tour and history talk with naturalist Jeremy Smith.

Markin said it would be a “fun” day with a musical performance by the Langley Fiddlers.

“It’s going to be a wonderful day out in nature with our parishioners, surrounded by trees and fresh autumn air along the river at Derby Reach,” he added.

The event will take place on Saturday October 1st at the Heritage Area, 10748 Allard Cres.

Also on the same day, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., will be the inaugural Kwantlen First Nation Salmon and Cranberry Harvest Celebration at McMillan Island Park in Fort Langley

.

Community FestivalLangley