How do you like them apples, Philly?
Cider Week officially returns to the City of Brotherly Love this weekend. Now in its eighth year and set to run Oct. 25 to Nov. 1, the annual celebration puts Pennsylvania cider in the spotlight.
The festivities get an early start with Fall Fest at Other Half Brewing on Saturday, Oct. 24. There, guests can try Ploughman Cider and food specials alongside live music, a costume contest and local vendors. Then on Sunday, Oct. 25, the action moves to Fishtown for the official kickoff at Pip’s, Philadelphia’s first Ploughman Cider taproom.
From 2 to 7 p.m., the indoor-outdoor gathering brings together PA cider and beer, comfort food from Mommom’s Polish Kitchen, gluten-free doughnuts from Okie Dokie and local creatives for a marketplace. Pip’s will then keep the party going with its first-anniversary bash and the launch of Pigeon Hawk, the newest release in Ploughman’s barrel-aged series.
For those who like their sips with a little history, Tuesday, Oct. 27, offers an opportunity with Ploughman Cider. Marking its tenth anniversary, the venue will host From the Archives, a small-group tasting of notable releases (including the final pours of the original Stark).
On Wednesday, Oct. 28, Philly Cheese School will offer another opportunity to try some vino through a guided cider-and-cheese class led by Pennsylvania’s first Certified Pommelier, Claire Trindle, and the cheese school’s Alex Stanton. The class will feature four ciders and four artisanal cheeses in a tasting designed to "sharpen palates."
The next day (Oct. 29) brings Cider for a Song at American Sardine Bar. The premise is simple: buy a cider, request a song, and watch Ploughman Cider’s Ben Wenk attempt to perform it live, whether he knows it or not.
For a more structured culinary experience, Carl & Friends will host a cider dinner with Trindle that same evening. The event begins with a cider cocktail and small bites before moving into a multicourse meal featuring at least four additional cider pours paired with savory dishes and dessert. Also on Thursday, Oct. 29, the International Bar will put together a free Basque-style cider tasting featuring Zapiain.
Thirsty locals can also opt for a cellar-series showcase at South Philly Taproom on Friday, Oct. 30, featuring rare bottles available by the glass, or head to a wrap party on Sunday, Nov. 1. Dubbed the Cider Stroll beneath the Headhouse Shambles, the all-ages wrap event will bring together Pennsylvania cider makers, food vendors, artists, music, and family-friendly activities for an afternoon celebrating the season.
While there, visitors can also find hot nonalcoholic cider, face painting, tarot readings and a raffle featuring cidery visits and experiences. You can feel good about celebrating at this event as well — 100% of the proceeds will benefit The Food Trust (the party’s co-sponsor) and its work to bring nutritious food to Philadelphia communities.
For a full schedule, visit phillyciderweek.com
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