The crisp air, golden leaves, and clear blue skies signal the arrival of fall in Plainfield, bringing with it one of the season’s most beloved activities: apple picking. Every year, families, friends, and couples alike flock to local orchards, ready to experience this quintessential autumn tradition.

Apple picking is a fall staple because it connects people with the season in a simple yet meaningful way. It’s a chance to enjoy nature’s harvest while creating memories with loved ones, turning it into an annual tradition for many.

Local farms like Jonamac Orchard, Keller’s Farmstand, and Heap’s Giant Pumpkin Farm in the Plainfield area are prime spots for a day out. These farms also offer other fall activities like pumpkin patches, hayrides, and corn mazes for those looking to do more than just pick apples.

“My family likes to visit Keller’s Farmstand because it has something for everyone,” said Plainfield North High School junior Elsa Bachu. “After picking apples, we always check out the corn maze and grab fresh cider donuts that maximize the fall experience.”

When picking apples, look for firm ones with bright, consistent colors. Avoid apples with bruises or soft spots, as they will not have the desired crispness and sweetness of a ripe fruit.

“Select apples with bright color and firmness to ensure the best flavor and storage quality,” The University of Illinois Extension said. “Avoid those with visible damage or soft spots, as they tend to spoil faster.”

Apple picking is best enjoyed with family, friends, or groups, making it a perfect bonding experience. It’s a simple way to connect with others while enjoying the beauty of fall.

“Fall is all about togetherness,” said junior Eianna Tan. “Whether it’s family or friends, being out at the orchard makes us come together, like you’re sharing in something special.”

Beyond fresh apples, the experience itself is rewarding and leaves a lasting, overall positive impact. It’s a fun, seasonal activity that gets people outdoors and provides an opportunity to support local farms.

According to the American Farm Bureau, “Visiting local orchards during apple season not only provides families with fresh, quality produce but also helps sustain small farms and keep agricultural traditions alive.”

If you have an excess of apples after picking, there are plenty of ways to use them. Apples can be turned into pies, cider, applesauce, or even donated to food pantries, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

“Last year, we had so many apples that we made pies, cider, and still had more to give to neighbors,” said Tan. “It’s a great feeling to share the harvest, and we always try to donate what we cannot use.”

Apple picking is a fall tradition that brings people together while celebrating the season’s harvest. It offers a chance to enjoy nature, bond with others, and experience local farms in their full autumn glory. Whether for fun or food, apple picking captures the simple pleasures of fall.

“There’s nothing like walking through the orchard on a crisp, fall day,” said Bachu. “It is a simple activity, but it leaves you feeling refreshed and connected to the season—and most importantly, each other.”

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The crisp air, golden leaves, and clear blue skies signal the arrival of fall in Plainfield, bringing with it one of the season’s most beloved activities: apple picking. Every year, families, friends, and couples alike flock to local orchards, ready to experience this quintessential autumn tradition.

Apple picking is a fall staple because it connects people with the season in a simple yet meaningful way. It’s a chance to enjoy nature’s harvest while creating memories with loved ones, turning it into an annual tradition for many.

Local farms like Jonamac Orchard, Keller’s Farmstand, and Heap’s Giant Pumpkin Farm in the Plainfield area are prime spots for a day out. These farms also offer other fall activities like pumpkin patches, hayrides, and corn mazes for those looking to do more than just pick apples.

“My family likes to visit Keller’s Farmstand because it has something for everyone,” said Plainfield North High School junior Elsa Bachu. “After picking apples, we always check out the corn maze and grab fresh cider donuts that maximize the fall experience.”

When picking apples, look for firm ones with bright, consistent colors. Avoid apples with bruises or soft spots, as they will not have the desired crispness and sweetness of a ripe fruit.

“Select apples with bright color and firmness to ensure the best flavor and storage quality,” The University of Illinois Extension said. “Avoid those with visible damage or soft spots, as they tend to spoil faster.”

Apple picking is best enjoyed with family, friends, or groups, making it a perfect bonding experience. It’s a simple way to connect with others while enjoying the beauty of fall.

“Fall is all about togetherness,” said junior Eianna Tan. “Whether it’s family or friends, being out at the orchard makes us come together, like you’re sharing in something special.”

Beyond fresh apples, the experience itself is rewarding and leaves a lasting, overall positive impact. It’s a fun, seasonal activity that gets people outdoors and provides an opportunity to support local farms.

According to the American Farm Bureau, “Visiting local orchards during apple season not only provides families with fresh, quality produce but also helps sustain small farms and keep agricultural traditions alive.”

If you have an excess of apples after picking, there are plenty of ways to use them. Apples can be turned into pies, cider, applesauce, or even donated to food pantries, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

“Last year, we had so many apples that we made pies, cider, and still had more to give to neighbors,” said Tan. “It’s a great feeling to share the harvest, and we always try to donate what we cannot use.”

Apple picking is a fall tradition that brings people together while celebrating the season’s harvest. It offers a chance to enjoy nature, bond with others, and experience local farms in their full autumn glory. Whether for fun or food, apple picking captures the simple pleasures of fall.

“There’s nothing like walking through the orchard on a crisp, fall day,” said Bachu. “It is a simple activity, but it leaves you feeling refreshed and connected to the season—and most importantly, each other.”