
Applefest Stories
Presented by High Country Shopper

The Beginning of Applefest
In 2023, the Cedaredge community will celebrate the 46th annual Cedaredge Applefest. Over the years the festival has grown to include activities for three full days, but throughout the years, one thing has remained constant: Applefest is a true community event, celebrating the bounty of the Surface Creek Valley by showcasing local apples, ag, art, music, crafters and businesses.
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By: Ronn Brewer - HCS Guest Writer

The AppleFest 5K is Saturday!
Join in on the Fun!
It’s time to dust off those running shoes and get training for the 15th annual Applefest 5K run and 2.5K Fitness walk! It is set to kick off the Applefest Festivities Saturday, October 7, 2023 in beautiful downtown Cedaredge. Sign up on their website here http://applefest5k.com/

Santiago Barajas' Dream
Building His Dream Orchards
By: Cassie Fortman & Jess Shelton
Santiago came to the area from Jalisco, Mexico in April 1978. He worked for Fuller Orchards in Palisade and then Don Williams here in Surface Creek for 24 years. Later he started working with Jack and then Chris Wagner of Wags Orchards. In 2004, he purchased a home on one acre near the orchards and then continued expanding by adding 20 more acres and later another 20 acres. He has continued adding to the home himself and creating a little piece of heaven on Nowhere Rd.
Now Barajas Dream Orchards grows and sells beautiful honeycrisp, fuji, and gala apples along with peaches and vegetables. Santiago sells his produce at farmers markets in Basalt, Gunnison, and Delta. He also ships to clients across the country.
Having his own orchard is something Santiago always dreamed of and the pride he holds in making this dream happen radiates from this incredibly kind and hard-working man. Come see him on Apple Lane at the upcoming Applefest!
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Cedar Mesa Community Club
True Grit
By: Stu Carlson - Staff Writer
Like many of the surrounding mesas scattered about Delta County, Cedar Mesa was settled by tough and dedicated pioneers who forged their farms and orchards in the rocky landscape. Located adjacent to the town of Cedaredge, this mesa carries a tradition of community spirit that is solely owed to the Cedar Mesa Community Club.
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Vintage Motorcycle Show
Coveted Classics of Yesteryear
By: Stu Carlson - Staff Writer