When Was Apple Butter Makin’ Days 2022? Your Guide to Missouri’s Tastiest Festival!

Hey there, folks! If you’re wonderin’ when Apple Butter Makin’ Days 2022 happened, or just curious about this downright delightful festival in the heart of Missouri, you’ve come to the right spot I’m gonna spill the beans (or should I say, the apple butter?) on everythin’ you need to know about this event First things first—mark your calendars if you’re lookin’ back or plannin’ ahead. Apple Butter Makin’ Days 2022 kicked off on Friday, October 7, and ran through Sunday, October 9 in Mount Vernon, Missouri. The hours were 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Free to get in, free to park—can’t beat that!

Now, lemme tell ya, this ain’t just some random date on the calendar This festival is a big ol’ deal, pullin’ in over 100,000 people to a small town square for a weekend of pure, old-school fun I’ve got a soft spot for these kinda gatherings—reminds me of simpler times, ya know? So, stick with me as we dive into what makes Apple Butter Makin’ Days so darn special, from the sticky-sweet apple butter itself to the parades and quirky contests that’ll have you grinnin’ ear to ear.

What’s Apple Butter Makin’ Days All About?

If you ain’t never heard of Apple Butter Makin’ Days picture this a crisp October weekend in Mount Vernon Missouri, where the whole town square transforms into a bustling hub of food, crafts, and community. This festival’s been goin’ strong since 1967—that’s over 55 years of tradition! At its heart, it’s all about makin’ apple butter the old-fashioned way, in giant copper kettles over open fires. We’re talkin’ a process that starts before the sun’s even up and keeps folks stirrin’ with long wooden paddles for hours.

But it ain’t just about the apple butter (though trust me, that’s worth the trip alone). It’s a full-blown celebration with over 400 vendors slingin’ handmade crafts and mouth-waterin’ grub, live music fillin’ the air, and contests that’ll make you laugh ‘til your sides hurt. I reckon it’s like steppin’ into a time machine—back to when community meant everythin’, and folks came together to celebrate the harvest with a big, hearty feast.

When Exactly Was It in 2022? Let’s Break It Down

Like I said up top, Apple Butter Makin’ Days 2022 happened on October 7 through October 9. Here’s the nitty-gritty of the schedule so you can picture how it went down:

• Friday, October 7: Kicked off at 9 a.m. and ran ‘til 6 p.m. This was the big start, with vendors settin’ up shop and the apple butter kettles already smokin’ on the courthouse lawn.
• Saturday, October 8: Same hours, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. This day’s a crowd favorite with the huge parade in the mornin’—more on that later.
• Sunday, October 9: Wrapped up from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. A bit shorter, but still packed with fun and plenty of chances to grab some apple butter jars before headin’ home.

I remember checkin’ the dates last year, thinkin’ I’d love to swing by Mount Vernon for this. Didn’t make it in ‘22, but mark my words, I’m plannin’ for the next one! If you missed it too, don’t fret—word is, it’s always in October, so keep an eye out for next year’s dates on their official social media pages.

Why’s This Festival Such a Big Deal?

Now, you might be thinkin’, “Why all the fuss over some apple butter?” Lemme paint ya a picture. Mount Vernon, a lil’ town in Missouri, swells up with over 100,000 visitors durin’ this three-day shindig. That’s huge for a place that normally don’t see that kinda crowd! It’s been voted the best festival by some local mags, and it’s easy to see why. The event ain’t just a party—it’s a fundraiser for local nonprofits, churches, and youth groups. Every bite of food you buy from vendors helps someone in the community. How cool is that?

Plus, there’s somethin’ magical about watchin’ folks cook apple butter right there on the courthouse lawn. They use kettles that are over a hundred years old, peelin’ apples the day before, then cookin’ ‘em down with water, sugar, and spices for nearly 12 hours. The smell? Oh man, it’s like autumn in a jar. I’ve always wanted to grab one of them wooden paddles and give it a stir myself—maybe next time!

A Peek at the Main Attractions

Alright, let’s get into the meat and potatoes—or rather, the apples and butter—of what you’d have seen at Apple Butter Makin’ Days 2022. There’s a heap to do, so I’ll break it down with some highlights:

1. Apple Butter Cookin’ on the Courthouse Lawn

This is the star of the show. Community groups fire up them big copper kettles super early, like before dawn early, and start cookin’ down peeled apples. They stir and stir to keep it from burnin’, addin’ sugar and secret spices toward the end. By mid-afternoon, they’re scoopin’ it into jars for folks to buy. It’s not just food—it’s history in every bite.

2. The Big Saturday Parade

If you was there on October 8, 2022, you’d have caught one of the largest parades in Southwest Missouri. It started at 9 a.m. sharp, so folks got downtown by 7 a.m. to snag a good spot. Floats, bands, antique cars, horses—the works! The route winds around the historic courthouse square, and kids just light up watchin’ it all. I can just imagine the lil’ ones wavin’ at the Apple Butter Queen as she rolls by.

3. Contests That’ll Crack You Up

The festival’s got games and contests straight outta yesteryear. Here’s a few that stand out:

• Weiner Dog Races: Held at a local park, these lil’ pups racin’ always draw a crowd. I’d bet on the underdog every time!
• Terrapin Race: Yup, turtle racin’. It’s slow, it’s silly, and it’s a hoot.
• Bubble Gum Blowin’ Contest: Kids (and big kids like me) tryin’ to blow the biggest bubble. Messy and hilarious.
• Apple Pie Eatin’ Contest: Who don’t love watchin’ folks dive face-first into pie?

There’s also stuff like husband callin’, mustache contests, and crowning the Apple Butter Queen and Princess. It’s pure, unfiltered fun.

4. Food Galore from Local Folks

The grub at this festival ain’t your average fair food. All the food vendors are local nonprofits, so your money’s goin’ to a good cause. They’ve got everythin’ from apple dumplings and caramel apples to bratwurst, funnel cakes, and turkey drumsticks. My mouth’s waterin’ just thinkin’ about that famous Cattlemen’s steak sandwich or a cup of apple cider on a chilly day. Here’s a quick list of some eats you might’ve snagged in 2022:

• Kettle corn for snackin’
• Roasted corn on the cob, hot off the grill
• Pulled pork that melts in your mouth
• Tornado potatoes—fancy spiral spuds!

5. Crafts and Shoppin’ Aplenty

With over 400 vendors, you’re bound to find somethin’ unique. Craftsmen from all over the country set up booths with hand-made goodies—think wood carvings, quilts, and jewelry. Many of ‘em even show off how they make their stuff right there. I love chattin’ with artisans; they’ve always got a story behind their work.

Fun for the Kiddos

If you’ve got young’uns, Apple Butter Makin’ Days is a goldmine. The whole weekend’s packed with stuff to keep ‘em entertained. They can join in on contests like the pet parade—imagine lil’ Timmy walkin’ his pup dressed as a cowboy! There’s also peddle tractor races and plenty of prizes up for grabs. I reckon nothin’ beats seein’ a kid’s face light up when they win a ribbon or just get sticky from eatin’ apple pie in a contest. It’s family fun at its finest.

Where to Stay and How to Get There

If you was plannin’ to hit up Apple Butter Makin’ Days in 2022, or thinkin’ about next time, Mount Vernon’s got some cozy spots to crash. There’s a handful of hotels like Best Western or Quality Inn right in town, plus a cute lil’ bed and breakfast if you’re after somethin’ more homey. For the RV crowd, there’s campgrounds nearby, some even along the historic Route 66. Just a heads up—book early, ‘cause with 100,000 folks rollin’ in, spots fill up quick!

As for parkin’, it’s a free-for-all in a good way. No designated lots, but churches open up their spaces, and you can park on city streets. Just don’t block no driveways or roads, alright? They’ve got shuttles to ferry ya to the festival, so you don’t gotta hoof it too far. Easy peasy.

A Lil’ History to Chew On

I find it mighty fascinatin’ how this all started. Back in ‘67, Apple Butter Makin’ Days was born as a way to raise funds for local causes. Over the decades, it’s grown into one of Missouri’s most popular festivals, but it ain’t lost its roots. The apple butter sales still help fund charity projects, and the whole event feels like a big family reunion. I’ve heard tales of folks comin’ back year after year, bringin’ their kids and grandkids to keep the tradition alive. That’s the kinda legacy that warms my heart.

What’s the Vibe Like?

Lemme set the scene for ya. You roll into Mount Vernon on a crisp fall mornin’, the air smellin’ of apples and woodsmoke. The courthouse square is buzzin’ with folks—old timers swappin’ stories, kids runnin’ around with caramel apples, and vendors hollerin’ about their wares. Live music’s playin’—maybe some bluegrass or country tunes—and everywhere you look, there’s laughter. It’s like the whole town’s throwin’ a giant backyard bash, and you’re invited. I ain’t been yet, but I can just feel that warmth from the way folks talk about it.

Tips for Plannin’ Your Visit

If you missed 2022, don’t sweat it. Apple Butter Makin’ Days happens every October, and I’m bettin’ it’ll be just as grand next time. Here’s some pointers to make your trip a breeze:

• Check Updates: Follow their official social media for the latest on dates and any changes. I heard there was some fake pages out there tryin’ to scam folks for money, so stick to the real deal.
• Arrive Early: Especially for the Saturday parade. Get there by 7 a.m. if you wanna snag a prime viewin’ spot.
• Bring Cash: Some vendors might not take cards, and there’s ATMs onsite, but better safe than sorry.
• Dress for Fall: October in Missouri can be chilly, so layer up. Plus, comfy shoes—there’s lots of walkin’!
• Come Hungry: With all that food, you’ll wanna try a bit of everythin’. Don’t skimp on the apple butter jars to take home.

Why You Gotta Experience It

I ain’t gonna lie—there’s somethin’ special about a festival like this. It ain’t just about eatin’ good or buyin’ crafts. It’s about connectin’ with folks, seein’ a community come alive, and takin’ part in traditions that’ve been around longer than most of us. Whether you’re a local or drivin’ in from outta state, Apple Butter Makin’ Days feels like comin’ home. I’m already daydreamin’ about stirrin’ a kettle or cheerin’ at the weiner dog races. Maybe I’ll see ya there next year?

Wrappin’ It Up with a Sweet Note