Apple Butter Festival

Michigan produces the third-most apples of any state in the country, a tradition Fenner Nature Center celebrates annually with its Apple Butter Festival. Apple butter, a thick spread made from apples, cider, sugar and spices, takes hours or even all day to make the traditional way, in a kettle over a fire. Though attendees won’t be able to create their own finished product, they will have a hands-on opportunity to learn the ins and outs of apple butter cookery, from peeling and coring the apples to stirring the kettle. Jars of apple butter will also be available for purchase in the Visitor Center. 

The festival isn’t limited to apple-butter-related activities, however. Kids can test their skills with a crosscut saw by cutting out a tree cookie, paint pumpkins, explore educational displays and view the nature center’s animal ambassadors in their enclosures. Attendees of all ages can hike the more than 4.5 miles of trails, snack on fall treats and gourmet burgers, and shop from a mix of vendors and artisans, some of whom will showcase their craft with live demonstrations. An eclectic group of musicians will provide live entertainment, including community string orchestra Rise Above the Cacophony, soft rock artist Adam DeVries, Celtic/folk artist Zarochi, folk/pop artist Mars McCartney, country/rock/blues group Orion’s Note and many more. 

Admission is free, with a $5 suggested donation for parking. Proceeds will benefit the Fenner Conservancy, the nonprofit that manages the nature center and Fenner Nature Preschool. For more information, visit sites.google.com/mynaturecenter.org/abf.