CIDER WEEKS

The resurgence of the hard-cider industry in the Northeast over the past 10 years is closely related to today’s local food movement. Consumers want products that evoke a sense of place and have ties to local agriculture.

In Pennsylvania and New York, farmers and distillers have been busy for years turning out a multitude of hard-cider brands to quench the demand. But cider makers and aficionados in New Jersey had to patiently stand by until the state’s restrictive liquor laws changed in late 2013, making it easier for artisan distilling in the state.

So, it’s no surprise we need to cross state borders this fall to enjoy full-scale Cider Weeks designed to connect consumers, restaurateurs, retail buyers, and cidermakers via a wide range of educational opportunities and regional events focusing on each respective state’s orchard-driven ciders. While there, raise a glass in salute to America’s most historic spirit and look forward to the day when the Garden State can host its own week with the likes of NJ-based Ironbound Hard Cider and others.

• 2nd annual Philly Cider Week, October 31– November 8.
phillyciderweek.com

• Cider Week Finger Lakes (NY), September 27– October 6.
ciderweekflx.com

• Cider Week NYC, November 8–17.
ciderweeknyc.com