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:
- Opinion: ‘Teachers and administrators who even SUSPECT child abuse must report to law enforcement’
Lars Larson argues that school officials in Longview failed to follow mandatory reporting laws after allegations of rape at Mark Morris High School. - CCSO investigation of deceased female located in the woods leads to arrest
A Clark County Sheriff’s Office investigation into a deceased woman found on forest land has led to the arrest of 66-year-old Andrew Brunette on murder and related charges. - Clark County Council Chair Sue Marshall will not seek reelection
Sue Marshall announced she will not run for reelection to the Clark County Council, citing family, farm life, and other priorities as she completes her final 10 months in office. - Opinion: The Democrats’ conduct was ‘downright disgusting and offensive’
Ken Vance criticizes Democratic lawmakers for refusing to stand during a State of the Union pledge and calls their conduct “disgusting and offensive.” - No cops hired so far with WA’s new $100M grant program
Washington’s new $100 million police hiring grant program has not yet distributed funds, as local officials cite technical issues and bureaucratic hurdles - Six individuals indicted after allegedly transporting more than 500 workers across border
Federal prosecutors announced indictments against six individuals accused of obtaining fraudulent H-2A visas and transporting hundreds of farmworkers to Washington state. - Opinion: The upside-down world of Washington Democrats
Nancy Churchill criticizes Washington Democrats over HB 2034, LEOFF 1 pension funds, and a proposed income tax, urging residents to oppose the bill ahead of a Feb. 26 hearing.
