Today is national apple day – really! You read it correctly, sources reveal that it is in fact the day we celebrate this glorious fruit.“In 1990, dismayed by the loss of so many traditional orchards and amazed at the 3,000 or so varieties of apples that have been grown here, Common Ground (a national charity) set out to create a new calendar custom to celebrate our most versatile fruit and the beautiful orchards they come from”
The first Apple Day was initiated by Common Ground on October 21 in 1990 in the old Apple Market in Covent Garden, London, bringing fruit back there for the first time in 17 years. It struck a chord. Apple Day has become part of the seasonal round and has provided an opportunity for people to express their love of apples, orchards and all the customs, rituals, songs, drinks, recipes and wild life associated with them. Linking the apple with the orchard affirms our reliance on the land and the importance of a healthy relationship with nature. Our orchards should be contributing to Britain’s food security at a time when 90% of our fruit is imported.
There is a multitude of ways to celebrate national apple day, click here to find a fantastic list of A to Z suggestions, such as apple bobbing competitions with the kids and local cider tasting for the parents. Why not take part in the “LONGEST APPLE PEEL COMPETITION” (there are sections for peeled by hand and by apple peeling machine!) – Serious business.
Our simple suggestion, peel and slice one juicy apple, sprinkle with a little lemon juice and share with the kiddos! Simple, healthy and satisfying.
