The world’s tastiest apple was born right here in West Virginia

Every third weekend in September a special festival is held in the Mountain State, the Clay County Golden Delicious Festival. This festival is a four-day heritage celebration of the birthplace of the Golden Delicious apple combined with fun for all ages with live music, food, rides and much more.

History

So how did all of this come to be you ask? It all started in 1912 when the first Golden Delicious tree was discovered near Porter Creek in Clay County by Anderson Mullins. This tree was then purchased by Stark Brothers Nursery and would go on to produce quality apples for almost 50 years. In 1995, this incredible apple was designated as the state fruit and today people in all parts of the world get to enjoy Golden Delicious apples.

It was only fitting that an apple as special as the Golden Delicious have its own festival. So, in 1973 the first Clay County Golden Delicious Festival was held and today that same love and pride for the Golden Delicious apple still exists.

Festival Events

While you’re at the festival look out for fun events and activities such as the skillet flinging contest, Apple Dash 5K, fireworks, live entertainment, clogging, car show, parade, baking contest and more. This festival is one you definitely won’t want to miss and it is sure to get you ready for the upcoming fall season!

This post was last updated on March 17, 2022