The Bayfield Apple Festival is back for its 63rd year, October 3-5, and this season brings fresh flavors, new experiences, and unforgettable fun for the whole family. Whether you’re a long-time attendee or planning your very first visit, here’s what’s new at this year’s Apple Festival.
1. Petting Zoo: Meet the Farm Animals
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of downtown Bayfield and step into the family-friendly petting zoo hosted by Lone Pine Cattle Company of Hayward, Wisconsin. Guests can meet:
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Scottish Highland calves
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Miniature horses
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Baby chicks
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Playful goats in a special interaction pen
This hands-on experience is designed for kids and adults alike to connect with animals, recharge, and create lasting memories. Admission is $8 per adult (children under 12 must be accompanied), and children under 2 must be held by an adult. Find the petting zoo at the corner of Manypenny and South Second Street.
2. Watch the Apple Festival Grand Parade—LIVE!
One of the festival’s most beloved traditions is the Apple Festival Grand Parade. For the first time ever, you don’t have to be in Bayfield to enjoy it—you can stream it live!
🎺 When: Sunday, October 5 at 2:00 p.m.
📍 Where: Rittenhouse Avenue in downtown Bayfield—or online at Bayfield.org and the Apple Festival Facebook page.
The parade features colorful floats, local high school bands, and the famous Mass Band performance of “On Wisconsin” by nine schools—a tradition you won’t want to miss.
3. Sip & Savor at the Cider Garden
New this year, festival-goers can enjoy local hard cider in the Cider Garden, located just off Rittenhouse Avenue. Two Bayfield cideries will be featured:
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Apfelhaus Cider – A fifth-generation family farm, known for its heritage and tradition, offering three delicious ciders, including their semi-sweet Apple Fest Cider.
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Bayfield Winery & Blue Ox Cider – A small family-owned farm producing award-winning wines and hard ciders. Don’t miss their ginger cider, made with fresh ginger root.
4. Anishinaabe Performances
Experience some of the rich cultural traditions of the Anishinaabe people of the Red Cliff Nation at the Apple Festival. During the three days of the festival, several performances will be held at 222 Rittenhouse at Rabbit, Bird, and Bear Art Gallery.
- Buffalo Junior Singers and Red Cliff Singers - Native drumming and singing
5. 50/50 Raffle: Win While Giving Back
Throughout the festival, stop by one of the 50/50 raffle booths for your chance to win big while supporting the Bayfield Chamber’s year-round events. The winner will be announced on Sunday at 5:00 p.m. on the Grand Stage.
Plan Your Visit
Bayfield Apple Festival is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and the harvest season. With new attractions like the petting zoo, cider garden, and live parade stream, this year promises to be one of the most exciting yet. Apple Festival wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of volunteers, sponsors, and community members. Please be respectful, kind, and safe as you enjoy this one-of-a-kind Bayfield tradition.
📅 Mark your calendar and join us for the 63rd Annual Bayfield Apple Festival, October 3-5, 2025!
