Cider Week Virginia kicks off November 9th with Richmond Cider Celebration, other cider-filled events

Cider Week Virginia returns November 15-24 for a week-long celebration of all things cider across the Commonwealth. Sixteen cideries are participating this year, with both new and returning makers in the lineup.

“Nationally, sales of cider have grown ten-fold over the past decade,” Anne Shelton, president of the Virginia Association of Cider Makers, said. “Virginia mirrors this growth and is now home to 26 cideries and counting.”

Cider lovers can expect to enjoy events at participating cideries ranging from educational workshops to tastings with the cider makers.

Potter’s Craft Cider will also be marking the occasion with the opening of its new tasting room while Richmond’s Truckle Cheesemongers opens a shop inside Blue Bee Cider.

As one of the most quickly growing categories in alcoholic beverages, the cider industry has made a triumphant return, not just in Virginia but across the country.

With a history dating back to colonial times, Thomas Jefferson was a known lover and producer of cider. Cider Week Virginia has revived the cider tradition by encouraging growth and production of fine ciders.

Several events will take place as part of the celebration in Scott’s Addition.

Head out to kick off Cider Week VA with the 7th Annual Richmond Cider Celebration on Saturday, November 9 from 11am – 4pm.

This festival will feature 15 Virginia cideries, as well as local food and artisan vendors. Enjoy three different flights of five ciders, all separated by region. Share with your friends and vote on your favorite flight! Each flight is $15 with a portion of proceeds benefiting Enrichmond Foundation and Virginia Association of Cider Makers.

Richmond Cider Celebration will be held at Blue Bee Cider, located at 1320 Summit Ave, Richmond, VA. Free street parking is available in the neighborhood.

Indoor and outdoor seating will be available, but feel free to bring lawn chairs. We’ll have live music and tents to kick back under! This is a rain or shine event. No fee for entry.

Your four-legged friends are welcome – they must be socialized and leashed (no retractable leashes, please).

There will also be a Cheese and Cider Pairing Class Tuesday, November 19, 6 – 9 p.m. at Blue Bee Cider

From stinky to mild, Truckle Cheesemongers and Essex St. partner on this special event bringing together two favorites. Class includes a cider and cheese flight.

Check out a complete list of events and in-cider information on the website, www.ciderweekva.com.