Storytime Tapestry Newsletter

The newsletter devoted to spreading love and cultural awareness throughout the world.

Special Treat –  Hartson Dowd

May 31, 2006

Blossom Time, for many of us the most eagerly awaited time of the year, is the most fleeting.  However, even a brief glimpse of pale pink and white blossoms is a welcome respite from the drab days and browns of winter’s end.

            Although there are many blossom festivals in areas across Canada (notably in Creston, B.C., and Niagara Falls, Ontario), one of the longest running and best known festivals is the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival a springtime celebration of our traditions and agricultural heritage. The aim is to promote the best family event for all Valley communities and visitors making it the leading festival in Atlantic Canada

            Since the 1930s, Canadians and Americans have been trekking to the Kentville-Grand Pre area of Nova Scotia to enjoy the delicately scented blossoms of about a million apple trees, along with a parade, barbecues, sports events and the crowning of Queen Annapolisa, the queen of the festival.

           The Apple Blossom Festival, which annually opens Nova Scotia's tourist season, continues to enjoy national and international recognition. In 1988 and 1991, it was selected by the American Bus Association as one of the Top 100 tourist events in North America. In 2002 the Royal Canadian Mint presented the Annapolis Valley Apple Blossom Festival - 2002 50-Cent Sterling Silver Coin.

           The Valley always enjoys fair weather for its festival. No parade has ever been cancelled or postponed because of inclement weather, nor have many other outdoor events.

There have been many changes in apple production since the first festival was held in 1933. Old orchards have been uprooted, and newer varieties of apple trees planted. Most trees now are smaller than the traditional umbrella-shaped trees, but there are more to the acre.

One thing that hasn't changed is the spectacle and the scent of fruit trees in bloom, luring visitors from near and far. Apple blossom time signals the end of another winter, and offers the promise of a new growing season.

The Apple Blossom Festival has become one of the most important community festivals in Atlantic Canada.  Visit www.appleblossom.com
2006 Festival Theme: "Treasure the Valley"

Hartson Dowd

hsdowd@telus.net