UPDATE: The annual Tallong Apple Day Festival took place on September 28, 2023, showcasing not just apples but an exhilarating array of activities that brought the community together. The festival featured everything from pig races to medieval duels, captivating visitors with a vibrant atmosphere.
This year, attendees experienced a bustling event filled with local produce, including fresh apples, apple pies, and apple cider, alongside unique attractions like a rock climbing wall and stalls brimming with arts and crafts. The festival is a testament to the strong community spirit in Tallong, where locals and international volunteers joined forces to create a memorable day.
Seven dedicated volunteers from countries including Laos, Mexico, Russia, Vietnam, Germany, Indonesia, and even one from Melbourne, Australia, arrived in Tallong on September 22 through the International Volunteers for Peace (IVP) program. Their hard work included setting up gazebos and packing over 300 kilograms of apples for the festival.
“The experience has been amazing, even with the hard work,” said Helen Sutiawan, a volunteer from Indonesia, expressing her sadness to leave the picturesque town. “Meeting new people and exploring the area has been unforgettable.”
Charlotte Cameron, another volunteer from Melbourne, echoed her sentiments, sharing, “I’ve seen more apples than I can count, but the experience has been priceless.”
Local organizers Rodney and Maureen Hollow highlighted the festival’s impact on the community, stating that proceeds will support local projects, as government grants are limited. “Every bit helps,” Ms. Hollow emphasized.
The festival’s popularity was evident as vehicles lined every available space in the small town, showcasing its significance as the largest event for Tallong. The pig races brought laughter and excitement, while the medieval duellers from the Castelyn Medieval team delivered thrilling performances, showcasing their martial skills in full armor.
“We’ve had a fantastic time here,” said Joshua Sloss, an instructor at Castelyn Medieval, noting the competitive spirit and camaraderie among teams.
With the festival now passed, the community looks forward to the benefits gained from another successful event, reinforcing Tallong’s reputation as a lively hub of cultural engagement. The festival not only celebrates local produce but also strengthens ties between residents and volunteers, leaving a lasting impact on everyone involved.
Stay tuned for further updates as the community plans for next year’s festival, building on the success of this year’s vibrant celebration.
