Raise Your Glass for Virginia Cider Week

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Virginia is a powerhouse in apple production, ranking among the leading states in the nation. The picturesque Shenandoah Valley is home to the majority of these thriving apple orchards, where locals transform these crisp fruits into snacks, juice, and sweet and hard cider. Every year, the Commonwealth celebrates Virginia Cider Week to honor this favorite fall beverage during. This year, it falls on November 15-24. Visit Staunton to enjoy the rich flavors of Virginia’s cider scene, whether you’re enjoying a glass at your favorite restaurant or visiting a nearby cidery for a tasting adventure.

Fun Cider Facts

Cider has a rich history dating back hundreds of years. The Pilgrims actually relied on cider as a safe beverage choice when clean water was hard to come by. Today, it’s celebrated not only for its delightful taste but also for its sustainability. Apple trees are long-lived and require far less water, fertilizer, and maintenance compared to many other crops. Plus, cider is naturally gluten-free and brimming with vitamin C and antioxidants, making it a guilt-free indulgence!

Cider ranges in alcohol content from 4.5% to 10% by volume, and the fermentation process plays a significant role in determining its sweetness. As cider ages, it typically becomes drier and stronger. Whether you prefer a sparkling or still variety, you’re sure to find a cider that suits your palate!

Discover Ciders from Mars

One standout destination to experience Virginia’s cider culture is Ciders from Mars, located in the heart of Staunton’s Wharf District. This innovative cidery uses local apple varieties such as Winesap and Gold Rush, sourcing from nearby orchards to craft an array of delicious hard ciders. Cider flavors change, depending on the types of apples used, and some of their offerings feature blends co-fermented with other Virginia fruits. Ciders from Mars ciders tend to have low sugar content and range from dry to semi-sweet. 

Visitors can enjoy cider in a variety of formats, including 9 oz. drafts, bottles, or delightful flights served in beaker-shaped glassware. If you’re looking to warm up after exploring the area, try a cozy cup of hot mulled cider or one of their seasonal cider cocktails.

Step inside Ciders from Mars’s sleek, modern taproom, where a glass wall allows you to peek into the onsite production and lab space. On sunny days, relax on the outdoor patio overlooking the Wharf. Ciders from Mars embraces the local art scene with a taproom gallery and a schedule of live music.

More Staunton Cider Sources

Ciders from Mars isn’t your only Staunton cider source. Several other establishments feature permanent or rotating lineups that include the fermented drink. 

• See what’s available at Baja Bean, Byers Street Bistro, Second Draft Bistro, The Green Room, BLU Point Seafood, and  Zynodoa.

• Queen City Brewing always has a cider or two on its extensive tap list. 
• Stop in at the Staunton Farmers’ Market in its final weeks for an order of apple cider donuts. 

• Pro Re Nata+ serves up craft beer, wine, cider, and delicious cocktails!

• Stable Craft Brewing produces Hermitage Hill Cider along with craft beer and fun

Virginia Cider Trail

For a cider adventure, follow the Virginia Cider Trail to find a wealth of excellent cideries and tasting rooms spread across the state! Check out the Virginia Cider Trail for maps, information, and a mobile passport app to help you explore them all!

Nearby Cideries

A number of cideries are within an easy drive from Staunton. Taste a delicious reflection of Virginia, meet the cider makers, and learn about cider production. 

• Sage Bird Ciderworks, Harrisonburg

• Blue Toad Hard Cider Pub & Tasting Room, Afton
• Halcyon Days Cider, Natural Bridge
• Old Hill Cider, Timberville
• Bold Rock Cider, Crozet
• The Winery at Kindred Pointe, Mt Jackson
• Big Fish Cider Co., Monterey
• Showalter’s Orchard & Greenhouse / Old Hill Hard Cider

November Cider Events

• November 9: The Falsies + ALL CAPS at Ciders from Mars
• November 15: Staunton Underground Comics & Zines Presents: I Want My SUCZ TV! and Sweater Pie + Hearts in Exile at Ciders from Mars
• November 17: New Directions Center Bingo at Ciders from Mars
• November 19: Cider Week Trivia Takeover at Clementine Cafe (Harrisonburg)
• November 20: Pet Nat Lesson & Tasting at Sage Bird Ciderworks (Harrisonburg)
• November 21: Tristan Dougherty & The Heart Pines at Ciders from Mars
• November 23: Dry Cider Duel at Sage Bird Ciderworks at Sage Bird Ciderworks

Celebrate Virginia Cider Week by savoring the rich flavors of local cider and embracing the beauty of fall in the Shenandoah Valley. It’s an opportunity to raise a glass to this beloved beverage while supporting local orchards and artisans. Cheers!