Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2009

There is crispness to the air and leaves are starting to fall from the trees.
That can only mean one thing in southwest lower Michigan.

It’s time for the 37th annual Niles Four Flags Apple Festival.

The festival, held near Niles High School, officially begins on Thursday at 1 p.m. with the judging of the windows decorating contest.

A few events have already been held, including the Miss Apple Festival and Jr. Miss contests, as well as the crowning of the senior king and queen and the youth parade.

But starting Thursday, the “Rockin’ in the USA” Apple Festival will hit its stride.

Also on tap for Thursday are the carnival rides and activities at the festival grounds from 3 p.m. until 10.

On Friday, activities begin at 11 a.m. with the carnival running from 3 p.m. until midnight.

Other activities on Friday include the Huntly Baptist Puppets at 5 p.m., featured entertainment Blackhawk at 7 p.m. and fireworks at approximately 9 p.m.

The day’s activities will wrap up with a dance exhibition slated to begin around 9:30.
On Saturday, there will be a couple of breakfasts available for hungry visitors to get them prepped for a full day of fun.

Among the highlights on Saturday will be the 37th annual arts and crafts fair (10 a.m.-7 p.m.), the 34th annual train station apple giveaway (10:25 and 11:09 a.m.), the Apple Festival Grande Parade (1:30 p.m.), the old fashion log cutting and hand saw contest (3:30-5 p.m.) the YMCA senior citizens dance (7-10 p.m.), the Bob Seger tribute band “The System (8:15 p.m. and 9:30) and fireworks (9 p.m.).

The festival will conclude on Sunday with another day of fun-filled activities.
Among them will be the 10th annual custom car show (9 a.m.-3 p.m.), craft show (10 a.m.-6 p.m.) and the 20th annual lip sync contest (1-3 p.m.).

If you haven’t ever attended the Apple Festival, now is a good time. There is something for everyone and plenty of family oriented entertainment.