From the Big Apple to the sprawling orchards of upstate, New Yorkers have a lot of love for the delicious and nutritious apple. So much so that it has been the official fruit of New York State since 1976!
You’ve probably heard of the phrase, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away,” and for good reason. Apples are packed with vitamin A, vitamin C, fiber, and are free of fat, sodium and cholesterol. Plus, they make excellent pies. But did you know that New York grows more apple varieties than any other state? We produce an average of 29 million bushels of apples annually ⎯ over 10% of the total United States production. Which is a good thing since it takes about 36 apples to create one gallon of apple cider!
On October 21st, take a bite out of National Apple Day with the fascinating videos, family-friendly recipes, and hands-on activities below.
All About Them Apples!
Making Apple Cider | Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood
Grades PreK-K
Go on a tour with Daniel Tiger’s neighbor, Thomas, to learn about making apple cider!
Honeybee | Mister Chris and Friends
Grades PreK-K
Join Mr. Chris and Friends as we learn through song and dance how Honey Bees turn apple blossoms into apples!
Johnny Appleseed | Know Ohio
Grades 3-8
Learn about legendary Johnny “Appleseed” Chapman, and how he traveled from Massachusetts to the Midwest planting apple trees as he went.
How Does it Grow: Apples
Grades 6-12
One of the world’s most ubiquitous fruits might seem like a simple thing to grow. But inside the common apple is a secret — and it’s been challenging apple growers since Ancient Greece. Learn more with this video from How Does It Grow.
Sweetness | The Botany of Desire
Grades 6-12
Consider the evolution of human beings’ innate desire for sweetness and the evolution of sweetness in apples with these videos based on the popular book, The Botany of Desire.
Activities, Recipes & More!
Apple Orchards on the Adirondack Coast
All Ages
The Adirondack Coast is one of the highest producing apple areas in the United States with many orchards open throughout the year offering seasonal fun for the whole family. Explore all these orchards have to offer with the Adirondack Coast Visitors Bureau.
Apple Picking with Curious George
Grades PreK-K
This game from Curious George reinforces reading, writing, and representing numbers. Numbered apples are floating in the water on their way to the cider press. Help Curious George and Jumpy grab the right ones to fill the gaps in the apple number line.
Find the Letter on the Apple
Grades PreK-1
Combine literacy and motor skills in a fun activity where your child plays find the letter.
Make Your Own Fruit Leather for an Easy Snack
Grades PreK-3
Making fruit leather at home is a fun way to create an all-natural snack! This easy recipe is perfect for making with your kids.
Make a Fruit Graph
Grades 1-3
Playing graphing games using stickers from your favorite fresh fruits is a fun activity that gets the whole family involved.