Granny Smith Festival 2022
Celebrate all things apple at this giant neighbourhood party — and stick around for a sundown performance by Dami Im.
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Overview
They say one a day keeps the doctor away — so you're sure to be some sort of medical miracle once you attend the City of Ryde's beloved Granny Smith Festival this spring. After two years of COVID cancellations and online offerings, the festival dedicated to Australia's favourite apple is making its hotly anticipated comeback on Saturday, October 15.
Why all the apple hullabaloo? It's because the first known crop of Granny Smith apples was accidentally grown by Ryde local Maria Ann 'Granny' Smith back in 1868. Subsequently, since 1985 Eastwood has celebrated the discovery with a giant free and family-friendly festival of market stalls, food trucks, rides and live entertainment — which quickly became one of the largest festivals in Sydney. Of course, the last couple of years have been a little lacking, so the 2022 iteration will be making up for lost time.
Head in nice and early when festivities kick off at 9am to fuel up for the day with some delicious apple goods, including toffee apples, apple pies, caramel apples, apple juice, and of course, freshies for the purists. Then secure your spot to watch the festival highlight: the traditional 2,000-strong Grand Street Parade marching through the city streets. Kicking off at 9.30am, the parade includes bands, dancers and a giant festival float with a celebrity guest (Granny Smith herself).
While away the subsequent hours by browsing the market stalls (there'll be over 250 of them) to check out some of the apple-inspired products including handmade jewellery, clothing and homewares. Pop by the animal farm to say hi to some furry pals, and don't miss the family-friendly entertainment going down across five stages — including cultural performances, a singing competition and even a meet-and-greet with some Paw Patrol stars.
If you need something to break up the sweet offerings, come lunchtime hit up the food stalls and trucks to feast on delicious delights — Italian pork and apple rolls from Bella Porcetta; prawn and chorizo rolls from Mojo Picon; Dutch poffertjes (tiny pancakes); teriyaki pork ribs (with apple sauce of course) and more. And don't forget to stop by the pop-up Batlow Cider Bar on the oval, where you'll get free cider samples, as well as apple seltzers and local brews.
Closing out the day with a literal bang is X Factor Australia winner and Eurovision alum Dami Im, who is taking to the stage for an especially exciting performance before a spectacular fireworks finale at 8pm.
The City of Ryde Granny Smith Festival will run on Saturday, October 15, from 9am–8pm. Check out the rest of the Granny Smith Festival program and plan out your festival journey over here.
