Fort Riley Fall Apple Day Festival will be held Oct 5, 2024, and begins at 9 am. The Fort Riley Apple Days Festival is a celebration of Tradition, Community, and Sweet Apple Pies!
Every year Fort Riley, KS hosts one of the region’s most beloved community events—the Fort Riley Apple Days Festival. This event has become a staple for both residents and visitors, offering a perfect blend of history, fun, and, of course, apples! Whether you're a history enthusiast, a foodie, or someone looking for a fun family outing, Apple Days has something for everyone.
What is the Fort Riley Apple Days Festival?
The Fort Riley Apple Days Festival is an annual event celebrating the local history and community, with the apple as its symbol of abundance and unity. Held every fall, the festival brings together locals and visitors to enjoy a wide array of activities, entertainment, and, of course, the star of the show—apple pie. Fort Riley, being a key historical site and home to the U.S. Army's Big Red One, also uses the festival as an opportunity to showcase its rich history and current mission.
The event takes place on the historic Fort Riley Parade Field, surrounded by beautiful 19th-century buildings that harken back to the early days of the fort, which was established in 1853. The festival’s setting adds to its charm, creating a perfect autumn backdrop for the celebration.
The History Behind Apple Days
The Apple Days Festival has deep roots in the Fort Riley community. It began as a way to bring the military and local civilian populations together, fostering a sense of unity and appreciation for the contributions of soldiers stationed at Fort Riley. Over the years, the festival has grown to include not only military families but also visitors from neighboring towns and across Kansas.
The festival's famous apple pies, made from scratch by military personnel and volunteers, have become an iconic part of the event. These pies are so popular that people often order ahead, or line up early to ensure they can take one home.
What to Expect at the Fort Riley Apple Days Festival
1. Delicious Apple Pie
If there's one thing that keeps people coming back year after year, it’s the famous Fort Riley apple pie. Libby's Custer's pie recipe is baked fresh by volunteers and these pies are a highlight of the festival, with thousands sold every year. Whether you're grabbing a slice to enjoy on-site or taking home a whole pie to share with family, this delicious treat is a must-try.
While I don't know how many people have seen the actual pie recipe, it has been passed down through generations of Fort Riley families. What makes these pies special is not just the taste but the care and effort that goes into each one. From peeling the apples to rolling out the dough, it’s a labor of love that the community takes pride in.
2. Family-Friendly Activities
The Apple Days Festival is designed with families in mind. There are plenty of activities to keep children entertained. For the adventurous kids, there are military vehicle displays, offering a unique chance to explore the Army’s equipment up close.
The festival also includes educational activities, with various booths set up to teach children (and adults) about Fort Riley’s history and the role the military plays in the community. You can even watch historical reenactments that bring the fort’s past to life, offering a fun and interactive way to learn.
3. Live Entertainment
No festival is complete without live entertainment, and Apple Days doesn’t disappoint. Throughout the day, you can enjoy performances from local bands, Zumba, a pie-eating contest, and military demonstrations. One of the highlights is the Big Red One Band, the official band of the 1st Infantry Division, which plays a mix of military tunes and contemporary hits. Their performances add a patriotic flare to the festival.
4. Military Displays and Demonstrations
Fort Riley is home to the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division, and Apple Days provides a unique opportunity for the public to interact with soldiers and learn more about military life. Throughout the day, there are various military displays, including tanks, helicopters, and other equipment, offering festival-goers a close-up look at the tools and vehicles used by soldiers.
There are also military demonstrations, including obstacle courses, and fitness challenges. These activities provide a glimpse into the daily training routines of soldiers, allowing civilians to better understand the physical and mental demands of military service.
5. Historical Tours and Reenactments
Fort Riley has a rich history, and Apple Days offers a variety of ways to explore it. One popular activity is the guided historical tours of the fort, where you can learn about its role in key events such as the Indian Wars, the Civil War, and both World Wars. These tours provide a fascinating glimpse into the past and highlight the fort’s importance in American history.
For history buffs, the reenactments are a must-see. Soldiers dressed in period uniforms recreate key battles and military drills, bringing history to life in an exciting and engaging way. These reenactments are both educational and entertaining, making them a favorite among festival attendees.
Why You Should Visit the Fort Riley Apple Days Festival
The Fort Riley Apple Days Festival is more than just an annual event—it’s a celebration of community, history, and tradition. Whether you’re a local resident, a military family, or a visitor from out of town, the festival offers something for everyone. Here are a few reasons why you should make it a point to attend:
- Unique Atmosphere: The combination of historical charm and family-friendly activities creates a welcoming environment that’s perfect for all ages.
- Delicious Food: Trust me, the famous apple pie is worth the trip.
- Learning Opportunities: With military displays, historical tours, and reenactments, the festival is not only fun but also educational.
- Support Local Community: By attending, you’re supporting the soldiers and families of Fort Riley, as well as local vendors and artisans.
- Memorable Experience: With so many activities packed into one day, you’re sure to leave with lasting memories and maybe even a new appreciation for the military and local history.
Plan Your Visit to Fort Riley
The Fort Riley Apple Days Festival is typically held in early October, making it the perfect fall activity. Admission is free, though some activities may require tickets or a small fee. Be sure to arrive early if you want to snag one of those famous apple pies—they sell out fast!
Fort Riley is located near Junction City, Kansas, and is easily accessible by car. Visitors should be prepared to show identification at the gate, as it is an active military installation. Parking is available on-site, and shuttle services are often provided to help attendees get around.
The Fort Riley Apple Days Festival is a cherished tradition that brings together the military and civilian communities in a celebration of history, culture, and, of course, apples. Whether you’re coming for the pie, the entertainment, or the opportunity to explore one of Kansas’s most historic sites, this festival is an experience you won’t want to miss. So mark your calendars and get ready to enjoy a day of fun, food, and festivities at Fort Riley Apple Days!
"While the installation is open to the public for this event, visitors who do not have a valid DoD ID will require a pass. Anyone can apply online ahead of time at HTTPS://PASS.AIE.ARMY.MIL/RILEY, or can get a pass the day of the event by stopping by the Visitor Control Center (VCC) located just outside Henry Gate, exit 301, I-70. The VCC will be open from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Saturday. For more information regarding accessing Fort Riley, please visit https://home.army.mil/riley/index.php/about/visitor-info "-Fall Apple Day Festival
