Onalaska Apple Harvest: The Heart of Our Hometown
Every first weekend in October, the Onalaska Apple Harvest brings our little town to life. For one special weekend, locals and visitors alike come together to celebrate what makes Onalaska so unique: community, tradition, and a whole lot of heart. Whether you've grown up here or just passed through, there's something about Apple Harvest that feels like home.
Sixteen years ago, this tradition was born. Back in 2009, it was just a small gathering with close to 15 vendors and a big dream. Now, in 2025, we’ve grown to over 112 vendors last year. Each one offers something special, from handmade plushies and artisan crafts to delicious baked goods that fill the air with the sweetest smells. It’s incredible to see how far we’ve come, and the excitement just keeps growing year after year.
This year, Brooks Baked Goods store front will have a Customers Favorite line up which includes our Apple Pie A La Mode cookie (this one sold out within a few hours because its so dang good), our Shaggy and Scooby cookie (this is our PB&J cookie that people beg for all year long!) and our Babbette Ate Oatmeal cookie (oatmeal cream cookie, simple and a crowd favorite!)
Plus something a little magical at our booth — our Harry Potter inspired lineup! (Stay tuned for more info on those next week!) Also at our booth we will have a bunch of goodies like breads, Rice Krispies, and cake pops. I can’t wait for you to stop by and see what we’ve been baking. It’s truly one of my favorite parts of the weekend, getting to see familiar faces, new friends, and share some treats with all of you.
Over the years, Apple Harvest has continued to grow and evolve. We've added some wonderful new events like the Farm and Homestead Tour on Sunday and the Farm to Table Dinner. Both add something special to the weekend. But even with the changes, the heart of the festival remains the same. We still have our Royal Court, with a coronation on Friday night. (Not to brag, but I was the second-ever Apple Harvest Queen!) And we still kick off Saturday morning with the Apple Harvest Fun Run.
Me and my younger brothers the night I was crowned Apple Harvest Queen 2010
Of course, the traditions we all love are still going strong. There’s the apple pie contest and auction, cider pressing by our high school football team, and the pancake breakfast hosted by the Presbyterian church. And don’t forget the parade, which starts at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, followed by a full day of fun, food, and festivities. If you’re wondering what’s happening when, just check out the online festival map for all the details.
Apple Harvest is hands down one of my favorite times of year. It fills me with pride to see our community come together. Customers, friends, family, and plenty of new faces all gather in one place to celebrate this sweet little town we call home. My heart feels full every year, and I truly can’t wait to share it all with you.
Mark your calendars for October 4th, and be sure to swing by the bakery and our booth for The Sweetest Treats Around. I can’t wait to see you there!