As the leaves show signs of fall and apples ripen in the trees, volunteers at Aldersgate United Methodist Church in Shelby typically ready their stoves for the big event.
Only this year the more than a dozen church goers who host the Apple Butter Festival canceled the event because of COVID-19 concerns.
Instead, they’ve replaced their cooking skills and in-person event with their creativity and a virtual sale.
“This year has really thrown us for a loop, so we’ve come up with the idea for an auction,” said volunteer Charlotte Jackson.
Volunteers have created gift baskets and a hand-made quilt displayed online now with pick up done by appointment between Oct. 11 and 16.
Here’s what you should know about the annual festival and its replacement event this year:
1.This would have been the sixth year Aldersgate has hosted the Apple Butter Festival at the church on Dixon Boulevard.
2.The event has brought in $60,000 for charity. Each year the money is donated to charity, the church’s Playschool or church needs.
3.The Apple Butter Festival usually has more than 1,000 pint and half pint jars for sale along with music and entertainment.
4.This year’s gift event includes more than 100 items with over half being gift baskets ranging from $10 to over $100. Themes include children’s items, kitchen baskets, pet totes, seasonal decor and a variety of things for at-home pampering.
5.To participate, go to Biddingowl/aldersgate.com.
