posted on 10/2/2026
The 42nd annual Apple Harvest Day will return to downtown Dover on Saturday, Oct. 3, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The free, family-friendly event, underwritten by First Seacoast Bank, is expected to draw tens of thousands of attendees.
Due to ongoing construction at Lower Henry Law Park, some traditional festival locations have been adjusted this year. Organizers have relocated many vendors, including the food court, to other downtown areas. The Cochecho Kid's Club will be held at the play patio just outside the Children's Museum of New Hampshire, while Wildlife Encounters and various yard games will be set up at Upper Henry Law Park.
New attractions for 2026 include All Star Mobile Hoops, featuring regular and smaller basketball hoops, and a free bicycle valet service. The bike valet, offered by Seacoast Area Bicycle Riders, will be located adjacent to the Orchard Street Parking Garage.
The festival will feature nearly 250 vendors offering crafts, food, and local goods. Food trucks and vendors will be more dispersed throughout the festival this year, with locations at Upper Henry Law Park, Cocheco Mill Courtyard, and the traditional Third Street food court.
The day kicks off with the 18th annual Apple Harvest Day 5K Road Race at 8:30 a.m. The USATF-certified course starts on St. Thomas Street and winds through the city. To promote sustainability, runners will use reusable water cups provided by HydraPak.
