The Orchard at Altapass welcomed September with a bountiful harvest of heirloom apples and the sounds of Appalachian music drifting across the Blue Ridge. As the calendar turns to October, guests are invited to savor the best of the season—apples, music, and mountain traditions—before the Orchard closes on Sunday, October 26.
Throughout October, guests can look forward to a plentiful supply of apples, with heirloom varieties such as King Luscious, Limbertwig, and Arkansas Black arriving in the weeks ahead. Bags of freshly harvested apples remain available and U-Pick Tours run hourly, with current availability posted on Facebook and the Orchard’s website.
Live Music Every Weekend
Music is at the heart of the Orchard’s mission to preserve and share Appalachian culture. Free live performances continue every Saturday and Sunday from 2 PM to 4 PM through October 26 in the Orchard’s open-air pavilion overlooking the Blue Ridge Mountains. October’s lineup includes regional favorites like William Ritter, Newfound Gap, and a season finale with long-time Orchard supporter Sam McKinney and friends.
Family Fun and Special Events
The Orchard’s Storytelling Tractor Rides weave together history, folklore, and fun and depart each Saturday and Sunday at 12:30 PM. Guests can also look forward to special visits this month, from local author and historian Michael C. Hardy on October 4 for a book signing, and Sours Mountain Homestead Farm, who will showcase their goat’s milk personal care products the weekends of October 4 and October 18.
The Orchard’s General Store, open Wednesday through Sunday, features curated items from local artisans, unique gifts, and seasonal favorites. Guests can also stop by the Apple Core Grill, open 11 AM to 4 PM, to enjoy fresh sandwiches and sides, and finish their visit with apple pie à la mode or a treat from the store’s ice cream counter.
Plan Your Visit Before the Season Ends
The Orchard at Altapass is more than just an orchard—it’s a destination. With apples, music, tractor rides, food, and artisan goods, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. October is the Orchard’s final month of the 2025 season, with closing day on Sunday, October 26. Don’t miss your chance to celebrate the harvest and the heritage of the Blue Ridge before the winter season.
For apple updates, music schedules, and event details, visit www.altapassorchard.org or follow the Orchard on social media.
