September 5, 2006 > Our "Big Apple" celebration

by Robbi Sera

What's the world's most famous apple?  Did you answer New York - The Big Apple?  Well, maybe.  But what about the savory fruits harvested from Johnny Appleseed's trees from coast to coast? It is said that Eve tempted Adam with this exquisite delight in the Garden of Eden, but with volumes written on the subject, the type of apple she chose is not revealed.  What KIND of apple did Eve pluck?  Was it a Macintosh, Washington Red, or Granny Smith?  Or maybe it was a Foxwhelp, Dutchess Mignon, or Alcatraz!

What?  You've never heard of these last three varieties?  If you venture to Garin Regional Park in the Hayward Hills on Sept. 9, you will get to taste these extraordinary apples and more in a festival that features delicious fruits rivaling Adam's temptation.  This is the 16th Annual Garin Apple Festival which has its' origins not in biblical times but in 1985 when Emmel Lindquist donated his antique apple trees to the East Bay Regional Park District (EBRPD).  Garin/Dry Creek Pioneer Park is actually two parks joined together in the EBRPD system and is unique for its antique apple orchard and ranching barn.  There are over 200 trees and 170 varieties cared for by angelic volunteers.

This celebration turns back the clock so visitors can take part in enjoying the "fruits" of farming and ranching in the 19th century. In recognition of California History Month, Garin opens its gates and apple harvest for a peek at and taste of these rare apples, unavailable in grocery stores.

Visitors can enjoy music courtesy of the Heartland Trio and join in square dancing too.  There will be activities for everyone including a blacksmith demonstration, an egg toss, games of "kick the can," and a tug-o-war contest. If the weather is warm, a pumper truck might cool things off with a water spray.  Kids can even make their own cider with an apple press. 

Tour the apple orchard and taste juicy slices of rare apples, nibble on freshly made apple crisp, or lick a spoonful of handmade ice cream. It's the perfect way to finish off your summer. 

The event is free, but parking is $5.  For more information, go to www.ebparks.org or call the EBRPD Coyote Hills at (510) 795-9385.

Garin Apple Festival
Saturday, Sept. 9
Noon to 4 p.m. 
1320 Garin Ave., Hayward
(510) 795-9385