God blessed us with perfect October weather for our 52nd Annual October Apple Harvest Festival on the Burlington campus.
The week prior, we welcomed volunteers to help make the butter. This included first-timers, old-timers, Kingwood Challenge Academy Cadets, and local high school students. Local primary school-aged children also stopped by for a tour and to sample the apple butter.
The Burlington Fire Department started the weekend off with a Friday night fireworks display that could be seen for miles. Then, on Saturday morning, the campus came to life with local musical entertainment, juried crafters, outdoor market vendors, bounce houses for the youth, and, of course, a wide variety of festival food.
Sunday was another crisp, clear day that began with Pastor Angel leading the World Communion Sunday service under the stage tent. Then local musical talent Kenny Jones blessed the crowd with his beautiful voice and his personal story.
The annual banjo, fiddle, and mandolin contest followed. This year, the contest was moved from Apple Harvest Memorial Hall to the main stage, which included more seating and a place to practice. Amongst the award winners was Chet Rickman, who won the Staggs Banjo Award and the Overall Performer Award.
This is not only our largest annual fundraiser but also an avenue for local civic clubs to raise funds for their community needs. Our proceeds are used to fulfill wish list requests from all agency program directors.
This festival would not be possible without volunteers, community support, BUMFS staff, and countless others.
Mark your calendar for next year’s festival, October 3-4, 2026.