The Gravenstein Apple Fair
Discovering the vibrant and delightful Gravenstein Apple was an incredible surprise when we first moved to Northern California nearly 30 years ago. While the blossoms appear in early spring, it isn’t until August that these precious fruits adorn themselves in a riot of reds, yellows, and greens. Crisp, tart, and brimming with sweet juice, the Gravenstein is arguably the most perfect apple. Whether enjoyed straight from the tree or baked into a pie, it boasts the ultimate balance and is simply delicious, making it the ideal dessert apple.
Aromatic Gravenstein Apples are both precious and ephemeral. They were first planted by Russian settlers at Fort Ross in the early 1800s, becoming heirloom symbols and a cherished part of Sonoma County’s history. Once the trees began to yield fruit, orchards quickly spread throughout Sebastopol, CA, giving rise to processing facilities that produced a variety of apple products and juices. In 1910, the Sebastopol Apple Growers Union launched the Sebastopol Gravenstein Apple Show, now known as the Gravenstein Apple Fair, held every August.
For us, the Gravenstein Apple Fair truly marks the transition into fall. We eagerly anticipate it each year as we prepare to share our handcrafted bath and skincare products with our loyal customers. This annual fair is a celebration of community. Carmen, the visionary behind the Fair, is always on hand to greet vendors and guests alike. When we arrive at Ragle Ranch with a truck full of booth materials, crew, and products, we are welcomed by old friends who help us find the perfect spot for our setup. Hours later, our booth is ready to welcome guests and friends who seek us out each year. It’s a joyous time to reconnect with parents from years past, playgroup friends, the maker community, and all those we have met on our many adventures. The staff is amazing, always ready to help and show guests how to respect the planet by recycling, composting, and using sustainable materials. The fair is rich with music and laughter, featuring incredible artisans, culinary artists, and connoisseurs offering an array of spirits and apple beverages. We look forward to this fair each year, leaving exhausted with full stomachs, and counting down the days until next August.
