St. George Applefest returns in September with food, fun and festival spirit

Festival-goers filled the streets of St. George during a past Applefest, enjoying food vendors, live entertainment, and shopping from more than 170 local artisans and businesses.

Casandra Turnbull

Managing Editor

The heart of the “Friendly Village” will once again come alive with sights, sounds, and the sweet scent of apples as St. George Applefest celebrates its 41st year on September 20 and 21, 2025.

Recognized as one of the Top 100 Festivals in Ontario by Festivals and Events Ontario, Applefest continues to draw thousands of visitors eager to experience one of the region’s most anticipated fall traditions. Locally, it has been honoured with the Salute to Brant Businesses Award for its incredible tourism and economic development achievements. 

“We’re so proud of how Applefest has grown while still keeping its small-town charm,” said Shirley Steedman, committee member. “Every year we strive to offer something fresh, but what never changes is the welcoming spirit of St. George and the way this festival brings people together.”

The weekend kicks off Saturday at 10 a.m., with activities running all day until 6 p.m., followed by a lively Street Party from 6:30–10 p.m. Festivities continue Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Applefest is known for its food — and this year’s spread will not disappoint. Guests can enjoy local delicacies from the “Food Court” on Hwy 5 at Main Street, along with food trucks stationed near the Main Stage and Beer Tent. Apple treats, from cider and pie to blossoms, butter, and caramel apples, highlight the festival’s roots.

Over 170 vendors will line the streets, offering everything from handcrafted goods to local honey, hazelnuts, jams, flowers, and more.

Families can head to the Kid’s Zone on lower Main Street, featuring inflatables, a petting zoo, dog and reptile shows, balloon animals, princess meet-and-greets, and daily Foam Parties. “The Kid’s Zone is always a highlight for families,” said Steedman. “We’ve worked hard to make it a space where children can laugh, play, and create memories.”

Applefest’s entertainment lineup is packed with variety. Saturday’s Main Stage features Jacob Moon, Voodoo Kings, Bluegrass Sweethearts, Cobby’s Kitchen Party, and Embrace, followed by the evening Street Dance with Rock Country, Kerosene Creek, and Dirty Pioneers. Sunday brings performances from Albatross Norfolk, Paris Port Dover Band, John Atlee, and Murray Williams.

The festival would not be possible without its 75+ volunteers and the support of sponsors such as McMaster University, the County of Brant, Heritage Canada, Enbridge Gas, and Grand River Insurance. “It’s truly a community-driven event,” Steedman said. “From volunteers to sponsors, so many people step up to make Applefest successful each year. We are proud to have such a unique group of volunteers.”

Applefest has operated in St. George since 1984. In its earliest days, the festival was a way to support the numerous apple growers in the area, recognizing the town’s agricultural roots and drawing traffic to the downtown businesses. It’s grown year over year and hit some hurdles during the Covid years but has since bounced back and continues to attract new crowds of interested festival goers who welcome fall with a nice cup of apple cider. 

Parking will be available at several lots, including Elliott Soccer Field with a free shuttle service, and at sites along Main Street and Beverly Street. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early and walk safely from side-street parking.

With music, food, vendors, and activities for every age, Applefest continues to deliver on its promise of offering “Something A-Peeling for Everyone.”

“We invite neighbours from near and far — whether from Brant, Hamilton, Waterloo, London, or beyond — to come and see what makes Applefest so special,” said Steedman.

Anyone wishing to volunteer can reach out via the website at www.stgeorgeapplefest.ca or by phone 519-448-1344.