Applefest 2026

Saturday, September 26, 2026
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Marion County Fairgrounds | Salem, Illinois

Salem’s biggest fall event is back!

Join us for a full day of local vendors, food trucks, family activities, entertainment, fall favorites, and community fun.

About Applefest

Applefest brings together thousands of visitors for one of Salem’s largest community celebrations. Guests can shop from creative vendors, enjoy delicious food and drinks, explore family-friendly attractions, and celebrate everything that makes our community special.

What to expect

• Creative and handmade vendors

• Food trucks and specialty foods

• Family activities and entertainment

• Apple-themed treats and products

• Local businesses and community organizations

• Wild Foam Adventures Bubble Booth

• Putt Putt golf

• High Striker

• Petting Zoo

• Bounce Houses

• Bag toss​

Vendor applications

Become an Applefest vendor

Applefest welcomes creative vendors, artisans, makers, specialty food vendors, and food trucks that fit the family-friendly fall festival atmosphere.

Creative Vendor Space: $100 for one 10×10 space
Food Truck Space: $200

All vendors must offer products, food, or services that complement the Applefest event atmosphere. Vendors are also encouraged to include at least one apple-themed or fall-themed item.

Apply early. Spaces are selected in the order completed applications and payments are received.

(Vendor application button above)

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Sponsorship opportunities

Put your business in front of thousands of visitors

Applefest sponsorships give local businesses the opportunity to support a major community event while receiving valuable exposure before and during Applefest.

Sponsorship opportunities may include:

• Business logo placement

• Facebook recognition

• Applefest website advertising

• Event signage

• Attraction sponsorships

• Booth space for qualifying sponsors

• Recognition in promotional materials

 (Choose your sponsorship opportunity above)

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Important vendor information

• Vendor setup must be completed by 9:00 AM.

• Electricity is not guaranteed.

• Quiet generators are permitted.

• Extension cords may not cross public walkways.

• Vendors may set up the evening before at their own risk.

• There is no overnight security.

• Severe-weather cancellation refunds will be provided according to the event policy.

• Registered workers will receive armbands for event re-entry.

Apple Wars Registration

Think your apple recipe is the best around? It's time to put it to the test!

Register for Apple Wars at the 2026 Salem AppleFest and bring your best apple dish for our judges to sample. Whether it's a pie, crisp, cake, bread, cookies, or another favorite family recipe, we want to taste it!

🏆 Cash Prizes:
🥇 1st Place: $125 + Ultimate Bragging Rights
🥈 2nd Place: $75

Questions about Applefest?

Greater Salem Area Chamber of Commerce
Email: info@salemilchamber.community

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