41st Ruthven Apple Festival will be virtual this year

LEAMINGTON — Due to safety concerns with the novel coronavirus, Community Living Essex County, Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens and the Ruthven Apple Festival Steering Committee are shifting the 2020 Ruthven Apple Festival slated for September 26th and 27th, to a virtual format.

“Given the circumstances, it would be very difficult to put the necessary precautions and safety measures in place to keep all festival-goers safe, therefore we are offering this much-loved event online this year,” states Karen Bolger, Executive Director, Community Living Essex County.

“Although we know that many people look forward to this annual family tradition, we all agree that we must put the safety and well-being of our community first in the decisions we are making,” added Steering Committee Chair, Terry Colasanti.

The annual festival attracts thousands to Colasanti’s Tropical Gardens every fall and in its 40-year history has raised over one million dollars in support of Community Living Essex County. The funds raised go toward purchasing accessible vehicles to help people with intellectual disabilities more fully participate in the community.

“Although we are sad to see the cancellation of the live event, we are excited about recreating the Apple Fest experience in a different format. Perhaps there may even be some apple pies being delivered to doorsteps this year”, states Tony DeSantis, Manager, Community Relations and Resource Development with Community Living Essex County.

Look for more details and announcements on social media and at www. communitylivingessex.org regarding the 2020 Virtual Ruthven Apple Festival this fall.