Every October when the leaves start to change and the weather gets colder, UBC hosts something called the Apple Festival. It’s held at the UBC Botanical Garden and it’s one of those events that feels very fall and very Vancouver. Students, families, and a lot of people from around the city show up, and it usually gets really busy, especially if the weather is nice.
This year the festival is happening on October 18 and 19. It’s been running for years and it raises money for the Botanical Garden. Apparently more than 15,000 people sometimes come over the two days, so it’s definitely not a small event. The gardens themselves are already a nice place to walk around in the fall with all the colourful trees, so it makes sense that people like to go.
The main thing at the Apple Festival is, obviously, apples. There are a lot of different kinds to try—dozens of them, more than most people even realize exist. In the apple tasting tent, you can sample all sorts of apples, from sweet to tart, and it’s kind of fun comparing them. You can also buy apples to take home, and even apple trees if you’re into that kind of thing. On top of that, there’s a market area with local vendors selling food and crafts, which makes it feel a bit like a fall fair.
It’s not just apples though. There’s entertainment too, like music and performances that run throughout the day. Kids seem to like it because it’s not boring—there’s stuff going on, and they get to taste apples and run around outside. For families, it’s an easy outing, and for students, it’s something different to do on the weekend instead of just hanging out at home.
Admission is pretty cheap, usually about nine dollars, and kids seven and under are free. If you want to go into the tasting tent, that usually costs extra, but it’s still affordable. The festival runs from around eleven in the morning to four in the afternoon on both days, so you don’t have to get up super early to go.
One thing to know is that it gets crowded, so it’s better to go earlier in the day if you don’t want to wait in line forever. Parking at UBC can be a hassle too, but there are usually shuttles from the nearby parkades, which makes things easier. The weather can be unpredictable in October, so it’s smart to wear layers and good shoes.
Overall, the UBC Apple Festival is a nice way to enjoy the season. It’s not a huge flashy event, but it’s fun, relaxed, and definitely feels like fall. Whether you’re a student looking for something to do with friends, or a family with kids, it’s worth checking out. Even if you’re not a big apple fan, the atmosphere and the garden itself make it a good time.
Dan Baltag
dbaltag@my.bcit.ca