Celebrate Northern California’s agricultural history with family-fun activities and delicious food at Johnny Appleseed Days, the oldest harvest festival in California. Held annually in Paradise, this charming event has been a beloved tradition since 1888, offering a delightful weekend filled with apple-themed treats, local crafts, and good old-fashioned entertainment.
Paradise was once a bustling hub of apple cultivation in Northern California.
With over 50 orchards, this region was known for its bountiful harvests. Today, Noble Orchards is the last of those orchards still standing. While times have changed, the spirit of Paradise's orchard heritage lives on, thanks to Johnny Appleseed Days.
Mark your calendars for the first weekend in October. This two-day festival runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Located at Terry Ashe Park in Paradise, it's the perfect opportunity to enjoy a crisp autumn day outdoors.
Not surprisingly, Johnny Appleseed Days is a celebration of all things apple. From freshly baked apple pies to sweet scoops of ice cream, you can indulge in these treats from locally grown apples. Be sure to stop by the Save Mart Pie Pavilion for a taste of locally-grown baked apples!
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For those who love handcrafted goods, Johnny Appleseed Days doesn't disappoint.
Artisans from both near and far converge at the festival to showcase their handicrafts. And this year the festival has a ton of vendors signed up to display their creations! Whether you're on the hunt for unique jewelry, artwork, or handmade home decor, you're bound to find something special.
The little ones won't be left out of the fun either. Sponsored by Paradise Unified School District, the children's area has tons of activities.
As you stroll through the festival, you can enjoy the sounds of hometown entertainment on the Gazebo Stage. It's the perfect backdrop for a leisurely afternoon of good food and family fun!
A highlight of the festival is the appearance of Johnny Appleseed himself. A local resident takes on the persona of this legendary figure, providing an excellent photo opportunity.
If you've worked up an appetite, the food court has you covered. With an outdoor seating area and a variety of delicious options, it's the ideal spot to refuel.
Adjacent to the festival, you'll find the Paradise Pumpkin Patch, where you can pick your perfect pumpkin, and Johnny's Pub presented by Paradise Lutheran Church. It truly embodies the spirit of a hometown harvest festival.
More than just a fun weekend, Johnny Appleseed Days is a historical event that brings the entire community together. It’s a good representation of the Paradise Ridge Chamber of Commerce’s mission—to unite local businesses with local residents.
Johnny Appleseed Days is a time-honored tradition that has stood the test of time. So, pack your bags and take a trip to Paradise this October.
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