PHOTOS: Johnny Appleseed Festival 2023

This past weekend people gathered at Archer Park and Johnny Appleseed Park for the 2023 Johnny Appleseed Festival.

Festival-goers wait in line for Little Johns Sarsaparilla Rootbeer, a staple of the Johnny Appleseed Festival.The Johnny Appleseed Festival began in 1974, with just under 20 vendors. Now there are over 200 booths.

Little Johns Sarsaparilla Rootbeer, a staple of the Johnny Appleseed Festival.According to the Festival's website, no modern conveniences are allowed: "Cooking must be done over an open fire, without the use of propane gas. Vendors are required to dress in 1800 period dress, sell products, demonstrate trades, entertain and provide food potentially available within the 1800’s. Some food delicacies may look a bit modern, but if you do a bit of research you will find that a similar opportunity was available back then."

Festival-goers find their way through the crowded walkway.Festival attendees at a candle-making booth walk around in a circle, dipping their soon-to-be candles in wax and water repeatedly.
The Voyageur Ancient Fife & Drum Corps performing at the Festival.
Children and their parents prepare to go for a ride on a homemade swing.Raccoon Forge
Festival attendees at a candle-making booth walk around in a circle, dipping their soon-to-be candles in wax and water repeatedly.People listening to time period tunes.
Tending to the barrells used to cook fried pickles and onions.
Festival attendees at a candle-making booth walk around in a circle, dipping their soon-to-be candles in wax and water repeatedly.The Voyageur Ancient Fife & Drum Corps performing at the Festival.The Voyageur Ancient Fife & Drum Corps performing at the Festival.People listening to time period tunes.A customer checks out with her pottery purchase.Passing by, people stop to record a musican performing.Festival-goers find their way through the crowded walkway.No modern conveniences are allowed, so booth workers must put in extra work to keep pots hot and food cooking.