, this versatile apple has made a comeback and is now a cherished symbol of Sonoma County’s agricultural legacy.

The annual Gravenstein Apple Fair (Aug. 9-10) at Ragle Ranch Regional Park celebrates all things Grav. Expect apple fritters, pies, cider, candy art — even apple juggling. It’s one of my favorite events of the year.

Focused on local farms and ranches, the fair is a family friendly reminder that Sonoma County is an agricultural wonderland. Plus, who can resist piglet races and a watermelon toss?

New this year

Lounge under shady oaks and sample small-batch cider, cheeses, pastured meats, desserts, and nonalcoholic teas and shrubs from dozens of local producers.

A shady lounge, VIP bar and libations tents, prime seating for the music stages — and perhaps most important, luxury restrooms.

Always a hit

Pies, cakes, fritters, juice, sauce, caramels and fresh-picked Gravs.

Meet the animals and the people who care for them.

Live indie, bluegrass, hip-hop, jazz and the soulful Love Choir.

10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 9-10. Proceeds benefit Sonoma County Farm Trails. Tickets on sale at gravensteinapplefair.com.

You can reach Dining Editor Heather Irwin at [email protected]. Follow Heather on Instagram @biteclubeats.