By Ty Hillis
Photo courtesy of Seattle Cider Summit
As the summer draws ever closer to its inevitable end, September is the last opportunity to finish it on a high. Luckily, throughout the country various cider, perry and beer festivals will be held to help accommodate this last celebration.
Mid Mitten Cider and Perry Fest || If you are looking for a fun event for the whole family in Michigan, the upcoming “Mid Mitten” Cider and Perry Fest will be held at Uncle John’s Cider Mill in Saint Johns, Michigan, on the 12th. This cider and perry fest will feature a wide variety of cider producers from around the state, many of whom will be there to share their cider personally. Uncle John’s Cider Mill also features a corn maze, wagon and train rides, gemstone mining and the infamous jumping pillow (a large, trampoline-like surface that is fun for everyone), so the whole family will have a great time! || Saint Johns, MI
LA Ciderfest || If you are in the sunny state of California, the LA Ciderfest kicks off on September 19 at Raleigh Studios in Hollywood. This Ciderfest will try to familiarize cider with those who are unaware of how varied and enjoyable the drink can be. Although we enjoy the splendors of the cider boom up in the Northwest, Southern California has yet to jump on the wagon. While it will be focusing on the joys of cider, it will also have local craft beers, gourmet foods and 1-on-1 opportunities to chat with producers and learn the ways of appreciating greatness. || Los Angeles
Rock the Core Cider Fest || Not to be outdone, Cleveland will be having their annual Rock the Core Cider Fest on September 12 at Voinovich Bicentennial Park. The festival will feature over 30 local ciders and 20 local craft beers, as well as some of the area’s best food trucks to accompany the beverages. There will also be a live DJ and giant lawn games, including Jenga, Beer Pong, Corn Hole and Ladder Golf. || Cleveland, OH
Washington Cider Week || An entire week of cider celebrations kicks off for the fifth annual Washington Cider Week. The event will feature various tasting events in select locations throughout the state from dozens of different cideries. The week will conclude with the Northwest Cider Summit, a conglomeration of the whos-who in Washington Cider, grand tasting and more. Attendance numbers are expected to hit 6,000. || Washington State
So find a festival near you and end this summer with a perfectly crafted cider grasped comfortably in your hand.