WARWICK- It has been a difficult year for apple growers across the Hudson Valley. This year has dealt a one-two punch: first, a damaging Spring frost wiped out a significant portion of the region’s apple crop, then, a rainy season that kept guests from enjoying the outdoors. Despite the setbacks, local orchards are finding creative ways to keep visitors coming back and make the most of the Fall harvest season.
At Masker Orchard in Warwick, that spirit of resilience is on full display. The popular u-pick destination has added a new attraction to its fall lineup: a pie-eating contest held every Saturday and Sunday that has drawn enthusiastic crowds eager to take part in the fun.
The contests have become a lively gathering point for families, visitors, and community members, offering a reminder that a successful Fall season is about more than apples alone. Even in a year when the harvest has been diminished, local farms are finding ways to create memorable experiences and welcome visitors to the farm.
Last weekend’s contest was hosted by Assemblyman Karl Brabenec, while State Senator James Skoufis served as host this weekend. Skoufis’ five year-old daughter Ava and her friend Esme were among the children who participated in the contest on Saturday.
Both lawmakers visited the orchard after fighting on behalf of the region’s fruit growers, working to ensure that local farms affected by the widespread crop losses were included in disaster relief funding made available to help farmers recover. Governor Kathy Hochul announced in July that Orange County fruit farms would be included in the disaster recovery program, which provides support to help producers manage crop losses, cover operating expenses, and address farm-related debt.
“Farmers are the backbone of our community and need our help this year,” said Brabenec. “I am glad to have pushed for farms in our area to be included in the relief program. Initially, Orange County farms were not included in the relief program, but after pushing, they are now eligible for the relief they so desperately need.”
Skoufis echoed the importance of supporting Hudson Valley farmers during a season characterized by uncertainty. For many growers, the Spring frost meant losing a substantial share of their expected crop before the season had truly begun. Continued rain added another hurdle, making an already challenging year even more difficult.
“Our orchards are essential to Orange County’s agriculture and economy. Whether it’s visitors or local families like mine, orchards like Masker provide such memorable experiences and I’ll continue to do everything I can to support them.”
At Masker Orchards, the pie-eating contests are just one example of how farms are adapting to the circumstances and making the most of the u-pick season. By offering visitors something new to enjoy, the orchard is helping sustain the community connection that has long made Fall visits to local farms a regional tradition.
“Maskers has been around for more than 100 years, and while this year has been a challenge, we are focused on ways to make the most of a tough season,” said Dan Olsen, farmer at Masker Orchards. “That has meant we have pivoted to other offerings and attractions, and we are thankful that our guests have been understanding.”
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