In this episode of the Dover Download podcast, Deputy City Manager Christopher Parker chats with Margaret Joyce, Executive Director of the Greater Dover Chamber of Commerce, and Hope Anderson, Program Coordinator for the Chamber, about the upcoming 39th annual Apple Harvest Day festival on Oct. 7.

Highlights of this year's event include the 5K road race, pie baking contest, over 300 vendors, live music, kids activities, and a cider garden. Joyce and Anderson share feedback they've received and efforts to keep the festival fresh.

They also preview other fall events like the candidate forums and Citizens Leadership Academy. Parker emphasizes the importance of civic engagement opportunities like the Academy.

In This Week in Dover History we look back to the inaugural Apple Harvest Day in 1985. Activities at that first event included farm stands, a craft fair, petting zoo, parade, hot air balloon rides, and more. The festival aimed to showcase downtown Dover and has now grown into a beloved regional tradition organized by the Chamber.