Fall is the perfect time to get outside, enjoy some apple cider, explore the grounds of a historic site and raise funds for its preservation. Mark your calendar for the 18th annual Apple Fall Festival, which will be held on Sunday, Oct. 8, from noon to 4 p.m. at Haldeman Mansion, 230 Locust Grove Road, Bainbridge.

"This is a fun day with wonderful music and food, and you get a gorgeous view of the Susquehanna River and the beautiful mansion," said Elaine Jackson, event chair.

The festivities will feature a variety of children's activities, including information about Johnny Appleseed, a coloring station, apple activities, flying disc throwing, jumping rope and more.

A full menu of food items will be served, featuring grilled Groff's bratwurst, hot dogs, homemade baked beans, applesauce, soup, chips and a variety of apple desserts. Bainbridge resident Darl Williams will serve fresh-pressed apple cider from his antique cider press.

Live bluegrass music will be performed by Stone Mountain, and Ryan "The Bug Man" Bridge will present an educational program about insects. A silent auction, featuring items from local businesses and organizations, will also be featured.

Tours of the mansion will be offered as well. Constructed in the late 1700s, the building was the home of Samuel Haldeman, a renowned 19th-century naturalist. The festival is hosted by the Haldeman Mansion Preservation Society, and proceeds will be used for restoration projects at the site. Work is currently underway on restoring mantels above fireplaces located inside the mansion, and funds are now being raised to complete exterior work between the mansion and the property's summer kitchen, which houses the Riverview Cafe. Proceeds from the restaurant are used to support the mansion's preservation as well.

"We have people who come back year after year for this event, and that's really nice," Jackson remarked, encouraging everyone to come to the Apple Fall Festival. "It's great to see old friends, but it's nice to meet new people, too. Bring your lawn chair and come spend a day by the river."