AppleJack Festival takes place every fall in Nebraska City. One of the most popular harvest celebrations in the state attracts up to 80,000 people every year. The festival is dedicated to Nebraska's agricultural heritage and its famous apples. Visitors get a chance to try hundreds of apple pie varieties, apple cider donuts, caramel apples, candy apples, and apple pancakes. After, they can wash it down with gallons of apple cider and learn about all the possible ways to cook and preserve apples. There is also a parade, a classic car show, crafts fair, and a carnival.
Days of the Festival
The festival is usually celebrated on two separate weekends, the first one of which is called "The Traditional Weekend" and features all the signature AppleJack entertainment, like the parade, marathon, contests and more. The second weekend is normally more focused on food and all kinds of apple activities. This year, Traditional Weekend is held on September 20-22, while the rest of the festivities will continue on September 28-29.
Apple Jack Fest Parade (September 21, 2024)
Named by USA Today as one of the Top Ten Fall Harvest Festivals in the U.S, the AppleJack Festival features its famous parade with marching bands and floats. The procession sets off at 1 pm from 16th Street and Central Avenue, continues down Central Avenue, then turns to Sixth Street and finally, stops at 1st Corso Street.
Entertainment Program
Nebraska City is considered to be the apple capital of the state for a reason. Thousands of people fill the city to try their sweet apples and indulge in traditional entertainment, which both weekends of AppleJack Festival have plenty of. You can visit the apple orchards at the Arbor Day Farm to take advantage of the bountiful harvest by picking some apples yourself. The local makers market is a great spot to visit if you'd like a souvenir from local small businesses or vendors.
An annual tradition of the AppleJack Festival, an antique auto display is held at Arbor Lodge on the grounds of Arbor Day Farm on September 22nd. It's the prime spot for all vintage vehicle buffs and fans of old car models. Another highlight of the celebration is the AppleJack Flea Market, which will run during the first weekend at Central Avenue.
Food & Beverages
Thanks to the local farmers and food vendors, you have a chance to indulge in all kinds of apple delights, including apple pies, caramel apples, apple donuts, and much more. The beverages menu includes apple cider, cider slushies, fresh-pressed cider, and wine.
Schedule & Location
During both weekends, the festivities begin on Friday and usually last until 11 pm on Sunday. Most of the events take place at the Arbor Day Farm, with some activities unfolding in Downtown Nebraska.
