Rodale Institute, in Kutztown, is holding its eighth annual apple festival, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., September 17. Families are invited to pick their own apples in the organic orchard. The Rodale farm boasts many varieties, including some that are not commercially available. The festival also includes organic food vendors, live music and activities and face painting for children. Additionally, Rodale Institute will hold its Apple A Day 5K, a fun cross-country course around the farm, on the morning of the festival. To register, visit RodaleInstitute.org.

Organic Liberty and Empire apples are expected to be available for picking, in addition to a few other varieties; all are perfect for eating fresh, baking and preserving. Baskets (free to use in the orchard or available for purchase to keep), apple pickers and carts are provided. Apples are first come, first serve.

Rodale Institute, founded in 1947 by organic pioneer J.I. Rodale, is a nonprofit dedicated to pioneering organic farming through research and outreach. For nearly seventy years, the staff has been researching the best practices of organic agriculture and sharing their findings with farmers and scientists throughout the world, advocating for policies that support farmers and educating consumers about how going organic is the healthiest option for people and the planet.

Cost: Free admission; $10 per vehicle to park. Interested vendors can register online. Location: 611 Siegfriedale Rd., Kutztown. For more information, call 610-683-1400, email [email protected] or visit RodaleInstitute.org. See ad page 15.