Got a dusty bike taking up prime garage real estate or a sewing machine you haven't touched in years? Clear out the clutter and do some genuine good this weekend. Memorial United Methodist Church in Avon is partnering with Pedals for Progress/Sewing Peace on Saturday, September 12, from 9 AM to 12 PM to collect repairable bikes, working portable sewing machines, and sewing notions. Instead of sitting in a landfill, these items get shipped to partner agencies in Central America, Africa, and Eastern Europe where they provide reliable transportation and income opportunities for working adults. Drop-off is rain or shine at 867 W Avon Rd.

I’ve watched enough Barefoot Contessa to know that Ina Garten has exactly two rules for cooking:

For a long time, I nodded along politely while continuing to buy apples wherever it was most convenient. The stores had all the variety I thought I needed, and the prices weren’t bad especially with sales. But then I went apple picking, and the lightbulb went off.

There is a world of difference when produce doesn't travel across more miles than a touring rock band just to land in your crisping drawer looking "fine." Eating a local apple straight off the branch is crisp, juicy, and sweet in a way that doesn’t need cinnamon, sugar, or a pie crust to prove itself. Turns out, Ina was onto something.

Of course it’s hard to source all my produce locally, we live in Connecticut, not exactly a tropical fruit haven. Bananas were never going to be part of the plan. But apples? Apples are our sweet spot.

That being said, it doesn’t mean I’ve sworn off apple pie, crisp, or fritters, I am human after all, but it does mean fall officially starts the moment apple picking season does. Which means we are officially in business.

So whether you’re planning a full fall outing, convincing yourself you’ll “just grab a small bag,” or negotiating with kids who are already asking about donuts, the good news is you don’t have to go far.

Roger’s Orchard (Southington)

This orchard is a classic for a reason. It feels like the apple orchard you imagine when you search “New England fall” on Pinterest. Rows upon rows of trees, plenty of variety, a farm market that makes it very hard to leave with only apples because the donuts are just that good, and a ciderhouse serving hard cider made right from the farm's own crop. The views from the ciderhouse alone are worth the trip.

Karabin Farms (Southington)

What started as a family hobby in 1972 has grown into an incredible orchard with over 2,000 trees and 20+ varieties. They actually encourage you to sample the fruit while you walk the rows to make sure you're picking at peak ripeness. Before picking make sure you pick up Karabin Farms issued bags and wear appropriate shoes for the orchard.

Lyman Orchards (Middlefield)

Yes, it’s a bit of a drive,but this is your destination if you want to turn picking into a full day event. Their orchard has been rated as not only the best in CT (CT Magazine), but the best in the nation (USA Today). Beyond 30 varieties of apples, you can pick pears and pumpkins, wander the corn maze, play a round of golf, or grab lunch at the pub. If you’re looking to make this a full fall outing rather than a quick stop, this is the one.

Belltown Hill Orchards (Glastonbury)

Belltown is a fourth generation family farm nestled in the hills, which provide views that feel especially good this time of year. Pickers ride wagons out to the picking locations, where they can choose between 27 varieties. After picking make sure to check out the market for fresh product and other tempting treats including fresh pies, cookies and apple cider donuts.

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Whether you’re baking something ambitious, packing school lunches, or planning to eat half your haul before you even get home, apple picking is one of those rare fall activities that actually lives up to the hype.

Ina was right, good ingredients matter. And around here, they grow on trees. Now if we could just get money to do the same…

Here’s what’s on deck this week around the Valley — mark your calendars!

Look for icons to find your crowd: 🎈 kid-friendly • 👤 adult • 🌞 all ages

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