Here in the Pfalz, temperatures are dropping, the sun is setting earlier, and leaves are beginning to turn orange and crimson around the edges. Autumn is on its way! As we get ready to usher in the first official weekend of fall, Appel Happel is celebrating by hosting its 14th annual apple festival, Mainz Apfelfest, Sept. 23 and 24.

The orchard will be open to the public Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for apple picking, pony rides, a bouncy castle and a farmers' market offering homemade jams and jellies, freshly squeeze juice, wine, and apple cider vinegar. Come hungry for flavorful fest favorites featuring Happel Appel’s own handpicked fruit. There will be a church service Sunday from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., and then the fest will resume with live music and entertainment, crafts and play structures for the kids. If you have other commitments this weekend and can’t make it to the fest, don’t worry. Appel Happel will be open on weekends for self-picking through Oct. 31. Call to make sure the orchards are open before heading out: +49 (0)6131-3 59 05.