Large crowds - as usual - expected for annual celebration of Applefest this Sunday in Warwick

WARWICK, N.Y. — It’s here. Come out and enjoy the fun. Weather-permitting, an estimated 30,000 visitors are expected to come to Warwick this Sunday, Oct. 2, for the 23rd annual celebration of Applefest. The traditional festival, Warwick’s largest and most well-attended event, has been held since 1989 to celebrate the local apple harvest. The huge celebration will again feature more than 240 craft and food vendors, a variety of free live stage performances including music, theatre and dance groups, rides, games and amusements for children, and an apple pie baking contest. Local families also have an opportunity to avoid the crowds and enjoy rides, games, music and food at Stanley-Deming Park on Friday and Saturday evenings. Traffic this Sunday is expected to be unusually heavy, particularly along Route 17A. Parking The Warwick Police Department urges drivers to avoid driving near or through the village. There are special designated parking areas at the Warwick Middle School and the Park Avenue School with shuttle service as required. Transportation for the disabled will be available at the middle school parking area. Look for the signs. Applefest is a major fund raiser and proceeds from the event are used for town-wide community projects and non-profit organizations. This Sunday the Warwick Valley Chamber of Commerce and The Warwick Valley Community Center will also distribute its all new Visitors Guide for Applefest 2011.