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For almost 45 years, the Wellsburg Applefest has been a focal point of the autumnal festivities in the Upper Ohio Valley.
It makes its return this weekend, with three days of activities surrounding the celebration of the Wellsburg community and its connections to the Grimes Golden variety of apple.
Ninety vendors will be lined up along Charles Street, with entertainment, contests and other activities set up within the Wellsburg Town Square. Pumpkin carving and decorating contests, pie eating contests, live music and wood carving are among the events and demonstrations being planned this weekend for the enjoyment of those attending.
Of course, the Applefest wouldn't be complete without its namesake fruit. There will be fresh apples, apple cider, apple butter, apple pies and much more available for purchase.
The Wellsburg Applefest takes its inspiration from local history and folklore, founded in tribute to the discovery of a variety of apple on the farm of Thomas Grimes once located off of state Route 27. The Grimes Golden variety of apple, a relative of the Golden Delicious -- West Virginia's state fruit -- was a result of seeds supposedly provided by Johnny "Appleseed" Chapman, an American missionary and nurseryman who traveled throughout the region planting apple trees and spreading the Christian gospel who became a figure of American folklore in the 19th Century.
For years, the late Michael O'Brien, a long-time festival co-chair, would dress as Chapman, strolling through the festival grounds and greeting children and adults alike. The costume O'Brien wore will be on display at the Brooke County Museum during this year's festivities, along with a nutcracker replica of "Johnny Appleseed" on loan from the Steubenville Nutcracker Village.
The Wellsburg Applefest is a seasonal tradition for residents and visitors alike, drawing many to the community.
We look forward to this year's celebrations as Wellsburg's appealing festivities make their return.