Community Corner

October Means Fall Harvest in Northern California: Grapes, Pumpkins, Apples, & More

It's crush season in Napa Valley and Amador County, apple harvesting time at Apple Hill and Twin Hill Ranch, and Halloween means pumpkin carving. Here is your guide to all things fall this month.

Fall in Northern California means harvest is in full force. You'll find farmers all over the state gathering ripe crops from tomatoes to almonds, but consumers are most familiar with October favorites like pumpkins, apples, and wine grapes.

It’s Crush in California Wine Country

If you’re a red wine lover and haven’t visited Amador County, you are missing out. About an hour southeast of Sacramento, nestled in the historic gold country of Shenandoah Valley, you’ll find a home known for their Barbera, Tempranillo and Zinfandel grapes.

Find a list of crush events here:

Find out what's happening in Mill Valleywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Big Crush Harvest Festival

October 5 and 6, 2013 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Food, Music, and Harvest Activities. Big Crush Winery activity details coming soon. Saturday/Sunday $40 Sunday Only $30 Designated Driver $10. ONLINE TICKETS NO LONGER AVAILABLE. Tickets will be available at the event for $5 more each.

Find out what's happening in Mill Valleywith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Big Crush Event Details

On an editorial note, some of my personal favorites include Helwig Winery’s Round-Up Red, Driven Cellars 454, and Karmere Vineyards Naughty Bawdy Blend.

Of course one can’t talk about California wine without mentioning Napa Valley. You’ll find dozens of harvest options all month long here

Apples

Experience an authentic farming experience at Twin Hill Ranch. We are committed to educating youngsters and adults about where they food comes from, and, as importantly, family fun.

Bring your family and friends to pick your own apples. It's just $2 per pound. Pack a picnic and extend your visit on our beautiful grounds.

If you are in the mood for some apple pie, apple cider, apple fritters, and even apple wine, and up for a drive, Apple Hill in Camino is the place for you. 

Celebrating their 50th anniversary this year, Family fun all around from pick-your-own farms to art galleries, you will find more than a bargain on a bushel or two. 

Pumpkins

Here are the Top 5 Yelp-rated locations to pick your perfect carving canvas.

1. Grow Art & Garden Education
254 Shoreline Hwy
Mill Valley, CA 94941
(415) 888-8471

2. All Glass Pumpkin Patch
17 Buena Vista Ave
Mill Valley, CA 94941

3. Nicasio Valley Farms PumpkinPatch
5300 Nicasio Valley Rd
Nicasio, CA 94946
(415) 662-9100

4. Emerald Forest Christmas Trees & Great Pumpkin Patch
Merced Manor, 317 Sloat Blvd
San Francisco, CA 94132
(415) 566-8984

5. Clancy's Christmas Trees &Pumpkin Patch
Inner Sunset, Twin Peaks 1620 7th Ave
San Francisco, CA 94122
(415) 753-2689


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