Rooted in the American Revolution
June 20 - 21, 2026
Step back in time and experience a celebration of New England cider, music, and tradition.
Dating back to the early 1700s, the Red Apple Farmhouse has stood for generations. Built by J. Pierson Richardson—a Revolutionary War soldier and Phillipston town selectman—the home remained in the Richardson family for over a century.
Take a Step Back in Time
Experience a one-of-a-kind celebration of New England tradition—where cider, music, and history come together on the farm.
Wander the orchard, raise a glass of hard cider, and enjoy the sounds of live fiddle and string music as you explore a weekend inspired by the spirit of the American Revolution.
What is the New England Cider & Strings Festival?
New England Cider & Strings is a weekend celebration of cider, music, and early American life—set right here on the farm.
Spend the day exploring the orchard, enjoying live fiddle and string music, and experiencing traditional demonstrations like ox pulls, blacksmithing, and timber framing. Sip your way through a themed hard cider passport, browse local vendors, and take in the history that surrounds you.
Whether you come for the music, the cider, or the experience, there’s something to discover around every corner.
Things to do
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Hard Cider Passport
The drink of the Founding Fathers and the American Revolution.Enjoy a themed Hard Cider Passport, sample unique flavors crafted at the farm, and experience cider as it was meant to be shared—together.
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Live Music
Traditional sounds brought to life.Enjoy live performances featuring fiddle, banjo, and acoustic string music throughout the day, echoing the sounds of early New England gatherings.
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Ox Pulls
A true New England tradition, ox pulls showcase the strength, skill, and partnership between farmer and team. Watch as these powerful animals demonstrate the work that once shaped early American farm life.
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Historical Presentations
Join Jane French of the Phillipston Historical Society for a special presentation exploring the rich history of the region. Through stories and local insight, discover the people, places, and traditions that shaped Phillipston and early New England life. -
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Timber Framing Demonstrations
Discover the craftsmanship behind early New England structures with a live timber framing demonstration by Kevin Killay, highlighting the tools, techniques, and traditions used for generations. -
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Blacksmithing
Watch as skilled blacksmiths from Hogtooth Knives bring metal to life using traditional tools and techniques. This time-honored craft played a vital role in early New England, shaping everything from farm tools to everyday essentials. -
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Opening Shots Disc Golf Tournament
Kick off the season with Red Apple Disc Golf’s Opening Shots tournament—an ode to the first shots of the American Revolution. Set across the scenic landscape of the farm, this event welcomes players of all skill levels to celebrate the start of a new season.
A Farm with Revolutionary Roots
Walk along stone walls built by hand in the 1700s, explore historic farm lanes once used to guide livestock, and discover heirloom apple varieties with roots dating back to the 1600s. Here, the history of New England isn’t just remembered—it’s still part of the landscape.
