Your First Visit
A Typical Day at Applefest
Going to Applefest for the first time can feel overwhelming because of all the available foods, crafts, and entertainment available this weekend! There is no particular or best way to explore Applefest, but this is a good starting point if you are curious about what an average day may look for a visitor.
You arrive around 11:45 AM to the Commons with your friends to get a good spot to watch the first performer of the day at Berton Milton Pavillion. After the concert, you explore the food vendors and get lunch and find a shady spot in the Commons to eat. Since you are at an Apple Festival, you make sure to buy some apples to take home, but also drink apple cider and various apple baked goods. You go to the Craft Fair part of the festival and meet the various local talented artists and perhaps pick up some souvenirs for your friends and family. To test your luck and skill, you play some games and even win a prize! When the day is over, you and your friends take the TCAT home having known the Ithaca area better, great memories and photos, and more to explore tomorrow.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I get there?
Public Transportation (TCAT)
Tompkins Consolidated Area Transit (TCAT) offers public bus transportation from all over the county. One-way fares are $1.50 per adult. Cornell University students can ride without a fare on weekends and after 6pm with their student ID card.
The 30, 10, 21, 40, and 51 routes will take you directly downtown. The main downtown bus stops are located on the southern and northern sides of downtown Ithaca at the Green St. Station and the Seneca St. Station.
Driving & Parking
For drivers, use your preferred GPS app for directions to the Commons, 171 E M.L.K. Jr. St, Ithaca, NY 14850. Residents and visitors can park in the Seneca, and Cayuga Street garages and walk to anywhere in Downtown Ithaca. Please note the Green Garage is closed for construction.
Garage parking is $1.00 per hour in the garages. On-street parking is $1.50 per hour during the week until 6pm.
For additional downtown parking, visit the City of Ithaca website.
How much money should I bring?
Entry to the event is completely free! The amount of money you should bring is dependent on what, if anything, you wish to purchase at the festival. If you are driving, there is a $5 charge to park at the parking garage (You can find more parking information here ). If you plan to eat at the festival, you may also wish to bring at least $10. Prices of the various baked goods, produce, and crafts vary by vendor. Many of our vendors and their items can be found here.
Can I pay with a credit card?
Most of our vendors accept credit cards, however, you should bring some cash in case a shop you are interested in does not accept them.
Can I bring my dog?
Bringing a dog is strongly discouraged due to pets not being allowed on the Commons. Additionally, the event will be crowded and may be overwhelming for your furry friend, or it may be difficult to move through the crowds. Registered service animals are permitted.
What should I wear?
If you are not familiar with the Ithaca area, it can get quite cold in the fall! Check the weather and bring layers.
When is the best time to attend?
If you are looking to avoid the crowds, attending midday Friday is a good idea. However, many attendees find that the crowds on the weekend add to the energy and fun of the festival.
Will there be alcohol?
Some vendors do sell alcohol (such as hard cider), so be sure to bring your ID if you are over 21. Many of these vendors also offer tastings.