VANCOUVER — The annual Old Apple Tree Festival returns Saturday, Oct. 4, at Old Apple Tree Park, 112 S.E. Columbia Way, in the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site. The free community event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and features live music, hands-on activities, walking tours, cider pressing and more.
Planted in 1826 at Fort Vancouver, the Old Apple Tree is believed to be the oldest apple tree in the Pacific Northwest and is considered the matriarch of Washington’s apple industry. Although the tree’s trunk failed in June 2020, a new tree sprouted from the original root system thrives today. A limited number of cuttings will be available to visitors during the event.
Festival attendees are encouraged to bring apples and a clean container for the community apple press. Apples and containers will also be available for purchase. Local food vendors will offer items for sale throughout the day.
Live music will be performed by River Twain, The Ottomatics and JT Wise Duo. Partner organizations will be on site to share information about tree conservation, protecting natural spaces, and the connection between food systems and community well-being.
Established in 1984, the Old Apple Tree Festival celebrates Vancouver’s first Heritage Tree and highlights the enduring importance of trees in connecting generations. The event underscores the city’s commitment to preserving our canopy and promoting environmental stewardship.
Trees play a vital role in enhancing community livability by beautifying neighborhoods and parks, cleaning the air and water, and offering a wide range of environmental, economic and social benefits. Through the city’s Heritage Tree Program, residents are invited to nominate significant trees within Vancouver for recognition and protection.
Information provided by the city of Vancouver.
Also read:
- State Representatives McClintock and Ley answer questions at town hall in Battle Ground
Residents voiced rising concerns about property taxes, school funding debates, the impact of new income tax legislation, and major costs tied to the Interstate Bridge plan. - As Washington gets an income tax, the fight to overturn it begins
Opponents are organizing lawsuits and potential ballot measures to challenge the new 9.9% income tax on Washington households earning over $1 million. - Battle Ground Police arrest suspect in fatal 2025 crash
Laboratory results from a blood sample collected in 2025 provided probable cause for police to arrest Michael T. Smith, more than a year after the Battle Ground crash. - Vancouver Police seeking missing person
Vancouver Police are searching for 62-year-old Carrie Ann Winters, who was last known to be near Frenchman’s Bar in west Vancouver. She has distinctive tattoos. - VIDEO: WA diesel hits record $6.53, crushing truckers and school budgets
With diesel nearing $6.53 per gallon in Washington, trucking businesses and school districts now confront sharply higher fuel expenses affecting budgets and workers. - WA’s status solidifies as one of the most expensive places in US
A new study shows Washington outpaces most states on cost of living, with metrics revealing a sharp rise in daily expenses and major metro areas ranking among the nation’s most expensive. - Opinion: Someone explain the Democrat Party to me please
Lars Larson criticizes Democrat politicians for shutdown threats, Homeland Security funding refusals, and positions on election laws, housing, and gun rights.
