The inaugural CiderFest, presented by The Fairmount Park Conservancy and the City of Philadelphia Parks and Recreation Department, will be unfolding on Saturday, September 30, from noon–4 p.m. at the Historic Houses of Fairmount Park.
Both cider aficionados and those who may be new to the cider-sipping game will be able to explore the grounds of six historic houses in Fairmount Park, including Cedar Grove, Laurel Hill Mansion, Lemon Hill Mansion, Mount Pleasant, Historic Strawberry Mansion and Woodford Mansion, as they enjoy on cider samples from cideries in the area.
The cideries that will be on hand offering up their samples include Stone and Key with Haymaker Meadery, Hardball Cider, Ploughman Farm Cider, Wyndridge Farm, Kurant Cider and Frecon Farms.
“The combination of some of the best ciders from Pennsylvania with some of the best-preserved examples of early American architecture in the country is the ultimate pairing,” states Ed Miller, Historic Houses Coordinator for The Fairmount Park Conservancy.
In addition to the cider tastings that await guests at this PA Preferred-sponsored and Cider Culture-media sponsored event, live music will fill the air and attendees will be able to purchase culinary dishes from onsite food trucks, which will offer pay-as-you-go refreshments.
Tickets are $40 per person when purchased in advance, and prices increase slightly to $50 on the day of the event. Each ticket will include a souvenir tasting cup, cider samples, free house-to-house transportation courtesy of “PHLASH’s CiderFest Loop” and abbreviated, self-guided tours of the historic homes. This event is for visitors age 21+ and ID will be required.
“Although striking all year round, Fairmount Park takes on a particular beauty in the fall,” adds Miller. “Sipping ciders on the grounds of these six historic houses, all with their own unique architecture and histories, makes for a perfect autumn afternoon.”
- Cider and apples photo: BigStock
- Historic home photos: Fairmount Park Conservancy