Apple Fest warms hearts in Abbeyleix
Mark Clancy with Ana Morrissey at the Abbeyleix Apple Fest. Photo: Julie Harvey
GLORIOUS autumn sunshine warmed hearts at the Apple Fest in Abbeyleix, when freshly pressed apple juice and conversation flowed freely throughout the afternoon.
Golden autumnal weather enhanced the annual event in the town’s Community Garden on Sunday 4 October, where attractions ranged from expert cookery demonstrations to competitions and delicious cakes and bakes.
The traditional apple presser was busy throughout the day, with all varieties coming from local orchards and gardens. There were also wonderful displays by the Laois Beekeeping Association and Scoil Mhuire students.
Thanking everyone who helped make the event so memorable, voluntary organisers said on social media: ‘It wouldn’t be Apple Fest without the generosity of all those around town who donate crates of apples or the hard working crew who wash, crush and then bottle the juice. We hope that you enjoy this year’s harvest and we look forward to seeing you again in 2027.’
The group particularly thanked Sam Moody of Bramley restaurant, Bláthnaid Bergin from The Business of Food and Patsy O’Connor for their demonstrations, as well as all who supported the raffle and donated prizes.
Oisín Clarke from Abbeyleix House and Farm kindly provided delicious cakes for Marie and Joan’s tea stand, while Hannah’s Bakes sold out of delicious treats in no time.
Talented young bakers made it very difficult for the judging team to choose winners of the junior baking competition, who received branded chef’s jackets, aprons, vouchers and surprises sponsored by Mueller & O’Connell Bakery.
Winners were: Muffins: 1. Robin Moran. 2. Edie Fingleton. 3. Aoibhinn Gardiner. Pies/Tarts: 1. Fia Fingleton. 2. Emma Scully. 3. Katelyn Tynan.
Raffle winners were Martina O’Connor (Bramley voucher); Jane Whelan (SuperValu hamper); Aisling Chester (â Family ticket for the Christmas Fair at Abbeyleix House and Farm; Ruth Talbot (â Green cleaning hamper); Julie Moran (Hannah’s Bakes); Ned Whelan (Beekeeper’s hamper); Fint Brennan (â Temptation Café voucher: Cyril Gee (Brandy) and Aoife Mitchell (Book).
