2025 Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival: What You Need to Know header image.

Credits: https://www.thebloom.com/

Spring is here — and Winchester, VA is ready to celebrate.
The 98th Annual Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival is back from April 25–May 4, 2025, bringing pink-and-green magic, celebrity sightings, parades, wine fests, and family fun.

Here’s your essential guide to “The Bloom.”

The Big Picture

What: 10 days, 50 events, 250,000 visitors
When: April 25 to May 4, 2025
Where: Winchester, Virginia (1.5 hours from D.C.)
Theme: Food, fun, fanfare, and flowers everywhere

️ Key Dates

April 25–26: Bloomin’ Wine Fest
May 2: Firefighters’ Parade 80’s Dance Party
May 3: Grand Feature Parade Country Music Party
May 4: Closing ceremonies final carnival day

Must-See Events

Firefighters’ Parade (May 2): Honoring heroes, fire trucks galore
Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parade (May 3): Floats, bands, celebrities, and Queen Shenandoah herself
Bloomin’ Wine Fest (April 25–26): Virginia wines outdoor concerts
Country Music Party (May 3): Drew Baldridge live

Celebrity Sightings

Alfonso Ribeiro: Grand Marshal (expect the Carlton dance! )
Ryan Zimmerman: Washington Nationals legend ⚾
Robert Carradine: Revenge of the Nerds star
Tony Ferraris: Real-life firefighter and actor
Washington Nationals Racing Presidents: Mascots and fun

Family-Friendly Fun

Apple Blossom Carnival: Ferris wheels, funnel cakes, and classic rides
Kids’ Bloomin’ Mile & 10K: Morning races for all ages
Mascots at Parades: High-fives from George, Abe, Teddy, and friends

Where to Eat

Old Town Winchester: Union Jack, Brewbaker’s, El Centro, Violino
Festival Food: Apple pie funnel cakes, crab cake sandwiches, BBQ
Local Tips: Reservations highly recommended; pack your appetite

Where to Stay

Downtown: George Washington Hotel (festival HQ)
Nearby Hotels: Hilton Garden Inn, Tru by Hilton, Spark by Hilton
Pro Tip: Book early — Winchester fills up fast!

How to Get There

Driving: I-66 W to I-81 N (exit 313B or 315)
Timing: Leave early — festival traffic can get heavy
Parking: Use city garages ($25 flat rate) or nearby lots; plan to walk ‍♂️

Smart Tips

Comfy Shoes: Brick sidewalks = not high heel friendly
Pink & Green Everything: Join the town’s official colors!
Arrive Early: For best parade spots and Wine Fest access
Bring Cash: Some food vendors and pop-up events are cash only
Stay Late: Nighttime lights at the carnival are pure magic ✨

️ The Bottom Line

The Bloom is pure small-town Americana with a Hollywood twist.
Between the parades, wine, concerts, and carnival rides, there’s something for everyone.

Come for the music, stay for the apple dumplings, and leave with unforgettable memories.