La Crescent’s first Apple Festival was September 1949. La Crescent resident Mel Hickenbotham proposed the idea to Ralph Jones as a celebration to promote La Crescent’s apple industry and “put La Crescent on the map.” The initial planning session was held just two weeks prior to fest. The first Apple Festival was a huge success. The crowd exceeded all expectations and was

just a sample of what was to come, as the festival has grown in size and quality every year.

Schedule

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 18

4:30pm La Crescent Live with Gregg Hall & the Wrecking Ball at the Parklet Behind City Hall. Grab a lawn chair and come on down for some live music before the Light Up La Crescent Parade! Drinks available for purchase.

7:30pm Light Up La Crescent Parade (Sponsored by Hilltopper Refuse) Lineup (in order of arrival) starts at 6:30pm in the Crucifixion parking lot. No registration required. Route: Crucifixion parking lot, left on S. 2nd St., left on S. Walnut St., right on N. 4th St., left on N. Chestnut St., ending at Veteran's Pkwy. "Parking Lot Party" to follow parade. Please enjoy food and refreshments at our local establishments along the route!