September 14, 2024

I miss Apples Fest at Indiana Dunes National Park; it was all about apples. Now it’s Duneland Fall Festival, which possibly broadens its appeal. We arrived just at the right moment to catch the wagon ride from the parking lot to the Chellberg farmhouse. At some point, NPS replaced the ancient tractor (a Ford?) with a more modern machine. I love wagon rides.

There were several exhibit tents at Chellberg Farm, although I don’t recall if my favorite was there: the old-school apple peeler that removes the peel in one long corkscrew piece.

The farm still had some animals. The hens sported color- and pattern-coordinated vests or aprons, with one hen showing a visibly plucked wing. I asked about the purpose of their fashion statements and was told it’s to protect their skin. A spirited rooster, who was no longer there, was responsible for their condition. (Later I found people who keep chickens are familiar with this behavior and the vests.)

Overall, a beautiful day for a festival. It’s not yet fall in my book, but it’s coming.

Duneland Fall Festival

8 photos