National Apple Day 2024 October brings with it the crisp embrace of autumn, and with it, a cherished celebration of one of nature’s finest gifts – apples! On October 21st, the UK unites to observe National Apple Day, a delightful occasion that pays tribute to the rich heritage and diversity of apple varieties grown across the nation. Join us as we delve into the history, significance, and various ways to revel in apples during this quintessentially British October celebration. We also provide a huge range of apple plants and apple trees for sale, so you can grow the wonderful fruit in your own garden. The UK has the best climate on the planet for producing apples, which allows them to mature and develop excellent flavours and colours. A Brief History: National Apple Day was first established in the UK by Common Ground, a charitable organisation committed to celebrating and promoting local distinctiveness. The inaugural event took place in 1990, and since then, it has gained momentum and recognition. This day not only honours the vast array of apple cultivars cultivated throughout the UK but also underscores the importance of orchards and the need to preserve these vital ecosystems. The Significance of Apples: Apples occupy a special place in the hearts of the British people. They are not just a symbol of deliciousness but also carry historical, cultural, and ecological importance. Traditionally, apples were associated with fertility, love, and immortality. The renowned legend of William Tell, an expert archer who shot an apple off his son’s head, further highlights their symbolism. In the UK, apples have been cultivated for centuries, and the country boasts a plethora of apple varieties, from the sweet and juicy Cox’s Orange Pippin to the versatile Bramley cooking apple. Apples also play a crucial role in cider production, another British tradition steeped in history and heritage. How to Embrace the Celebration: Apple Picking: National Apple Day offers the perfect opportunity to visit a local orchard and pick your own apples. It’s a delightful activity for families and friends, allowing you to reconnect with nature and relish the fruits of the season. Apple Recipes: Experiment with a range of apple recipes. From classic apple pies and crumbles to more adventurous dishes such as apple and cheddar-stuffed pork chops, there’s no shortage of gastronomic creativity to explore. Bramley apples and Howgate Wonder apples are excellent varieties to choose from when cooking with apples. Cider Tasting: Pay a visit to a cider farm or your local pub for a taste of traditional British cider. Sample different varieties, and gain insights into the cider-making process while savouring the crisp and refreshing flavours. Dabinett apples are perfect for making quality cider. Apple-Based Crafts: Get crafty with apples! From apple stamping to crafting decorative apple centrepieces, there are numerous creative ways to incorporate apples into your autumnal decor. Discover Heritage Varieties: Take this opportunity to delve into heritage apple varieties that may not be as readily available in supermarkets such as the Egremont Russet. Seek out local farmers’ markets or heritage orchards to discover unique and flavourful apples that hark back to a bygone era. National Apple Day is a moment to celebrate the bounty of the orchard, embrace the rich history and culture woven around apples, and connect with the natural beauty of autumn. Whether you opt for apple picking, savour apple-infused dishes, or simply raise a glass of cider, this day offers something to please every palate. So, mark your calendar for October 21st, and let us come together to honour the humble yet extraordinary apple and all it represents in our British heritage. To get your very own apple tree and grow your own apples you can find our range of apple plants and apple trees for sale, which make the perfect addition to your garden. BACK TO ARTICLES
