In ancient times, Egyptians, Greeks and Romans would pay tribute to the gods and hold feasts during a successful harvest season. Celebrations that followed a harvest were also common in many other parts of the world, including in 1621 America when the Wampanoag and European settlers had a feast in what many historians identify as the origin of Thanksgiving.
In other words, harvest festivals brought communities together.
Marys River Grange in Philomath started its own version in 2018 as Harvest Fest, a gathering where folks can peddle their handmade goods and farm-grown products, sip on freshly-pressed apple cider and let the kids run around playing games.
This year’s event arrives Saturday and will run from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at Marys River Grange Hall.
“Whenever people think about farmers, obviously the harvest is one of the biggest times of the year for those of us in the industry,” Marys River Grange No. 685 President Mike Terry said. “So, Harvest Fest is not only something to provide the community with cider and the chance to get some crafts from local vendors but also just to celebrate the fall season and get together as a community — connect a little back with our roots of what the seasons mean.”
The event will have in the vicinity of 20 vendors selling everything from crafts to farm-fresh food.
“They’re pretty much all from our local area so you may see them at other events but it’s just being able to support local businesses,” Terry said.
The cider press will be operating and half gallons and full gallons will be available for purchase.
Said Terry, “We press it right there and it’s all locally-grown apples and farm-to-table.”
Inside at the grange’s kitchen counter, there will be chili for sale.
GreenGable Farm, which is situated next door, will have its corn maze open to provide another activity for festivalgoers. Admission to Harvest Fest is free. There is a charge to enter GreenGable’s corn maze.
Proceeds from Harvest Fest go back to Marys River Grange. The organization’s primary project over the past several months has been a remodel of the historic building’s junior hall. The exterior of the hall has been completely finished with some interior work that remains.
“After Harvest Fest, we’ll be working on putting the sheetrock up on the ceiling and then putting shiplap up on the walls,” Terry said, “and after that, it’s just putting in the lighting and it’s good to go for use — both for Marys River Grange and for any potential renters.”
