(9/27) Pippinfest supporters returned to Fairfield in droves Sept. 25 and 26 to celebrate Pippinfest’s 40th anniversary. Unable to celebrate in 2020 due to COVID-19, the committee for the two-day festival was more than ready to see the crowds return according to Pippinfest Committee volunteer Linda Sites.
Saturday Main Street was a plethora of yard sales, craft, and food vendors from all over the region. Sunday made sure to stand out as well with live performances and entertainment for all ages including car shows, an apple dessert competition, and a display of timeless Pippinfest Pottery. The festival’s 2021 Limited Edition Pippinfest 40th Anniversary Plate was once again provided by Jack Handshaw of Hobbit House Pottery. A sprawling quilt show, and demonstration organized by Stitch ‘N Peace was held in Village Hall both days.
Youngster were ensured activities and entertainment both days as well through the Kids' Corner including pony rides, inflatables, a petting zoo, a climbing wall, dime pitch, and hands-on play for toddlers with bird seed ensured activities and entertainment for youngsters. A self-guided walking tour of 1860 Fairfield was sponsored by the Fairfield Area Historical Society and carriage rides were also available.
"I am pleased with the turn out," Sites said.
First time Pippinfest vendor Tracy Shaffer of Honey So Good Apiary was encouraged by a local college roommate to come out to the festival and was delighted by the welcoming atmosphere of the community. "It’s just been a constant stream of people to talk about bees with," she said.
Fairfield Area Historical Society’s booth provided facts about the borough along with local books commissioned for sale and provided glimpses at historical events through past newspapers. "We are also always looking for new members," President Camille Cline said.
A community staple now four decades in the running, Pippinfest is more than the community’s local apple festival, it is a celebration that brings people into the community, fosters an environment of fun for everyone, and brings neighbors together, said Sites.
Founded in 1980 by David Thomas, Pippinfest was initiated to provide opportunities for local clubs and non-profit organizations to raise funds and to provide a community-wide celebration of the annual apple harvest.
"I didn’t think in 40 years we’d be here doing this still… our budget back than was $100," Thomas said. "It involves a lot of community effort, it’s important for the local people to support a local project," he said.
In honor of the budding festival forty years ago, Thomas, former owner of the Fairfield Inn, planted a pippin apple tree behind the inn. In 2018, as the original tree was showing signs of aging, a second pippin tree was planted behind what is now known as the Mansion House, according to Sites.
Seemingly in honor of the festival’s 40th anniversary, this year the young tree has begun bearing fruit and was dedicated with gratitude to Thomas, Sites said.
