Apple and Grape Harvest Festival Buying Guide
The Apple and Grape Harvest Festival 
in Stanthorpe, Queensland started with the Apple Blossom Festival in 1954. After getting a makeover a few years later, it has been going strong since 1968 and includes all manner of activities that span a marathon to a grand ball. This festival is free to attend and provides entertainment for the young and old. Below, an overview of a few events and some basic necessities to have on hand so that you are prepared for every part of the next festival, taking place on March 5th, 2010.
Sporty
The festival has various sporting events including golf, croquet and a 5k Fun Run. Especially if you plan on participating in the run, don't forget to bring some of the items below.
- Sneakers : Make sure you get a good pair. Be sure to exercise in them a bit before the race so they are broken in and ready for the big day.
- Workout Clothes : If you are serious about the race, make sure you are not wearing jeans or any tight fitting clothing which will hinder your running. Loose fitting sweatpants or mesh shorts will help you to run and your body to breathe at the same time.
- iPod : Tuning in to music can help you focus on the race and get to the finish line.
- Hat : Whether it's cold or windy, a baseball hat or a winter hat can help protect you from the elements and keep your head in the race.
- Sunglasses : You don't want to be squinting at the bright sun the entire way, so bring some shades!
Imbibe
There's sure to be wine tastings from local wineries at this festival so make sure that you've got your sommelier hat on! There are five things to consider when tasting wine: colour, swirl, smell, taste and savour. This includes tilting the wine around in the glass to observe its colour and alcoholic content. If the wine takes longer to drip down the inside of the glass, it has a larger alcoholic content. Smell and taste are obvious but make sure you have the terminology to describe your senses accurately. Savour is the overall assessment of the wine that can be best described after you have sipped and experienced the after-taste. When attending formal wine tastings, you can be sure that the wine will be served properly (in a clear, clean glass) and at the right temperature, but if you plan on tasting at home, read up on the facts.
Dress to Impress
If you choose to buy a ticket for The Gala Ball held at the Stanthorpe Civic Centre, make sure to get out your formal wear so you can be ready to enter in style! Take a look at the guides below to get you started.
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Party Outfits for Women Check out your options for jewellery, purses, and of course, dresses! Decide how formal you want to go and be sure to pick a nice style for your shape that's also weather appropriate. |
Men's Suits Men, you may choose to wear a suit to the gala or even a nice button down shirt with a tie, but either way, read up on our shopping tips and also check out our guides on grooming and cologne to add something extra to your look. |
Cameras and Photography Don't forget your camera so you can record all of your fun memories! Don't have one? No problem! Our guide gives you the lowdown on just about any type of model you are looking to buy. |
Ready, Set, Bake!
Are you prepared for the QWCA Biennial Apple Pie, Cake & Jam Competition? This competition is held every two years and features an apple pie, junior apple pie, apple tea cake, apple jelly and grape jam category, with cash prizes awarded for the winner of each.
Get practising at home with some of our guides and links below.
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Bakeware A crucial part of the pie! Make sure you have some pie plates ready so that you can practice your dish at home. |
Cookbooks Even if you're starting from scratch, you've still got some time to prepare for the festival, so look up some cookbook recipes and find the best way to make your jam or pie. |
Kitchen Tools Whether you need a rolling pin for flattening out your dough or a whisk to stir your ingredients, make sure you have all the proper tools before getting started. |
Kitchen Wear Style can exist in the kitchen, too! Pick up a few nice aprons so you don't ruin your clothes and don't forget the oven mitts or kitchen towels so you don't burn your hands! |
Round Up
In addition to all the activities mentioned above, there are film screenings, a street carnival, a grand parade, food eating competitions, fireworks and lots more. So pack a bag and don't forget to bring a coat (Queensland's temperatures can still be quite cold in April), grab a group of mates, and don't forget to have fun!
External Links
- AppleandGrape.org: Overview on the Apple and Grape Harvest Festival and what's coming up in 2010.
