This week, Governor Newsom announced that El Dorado County will move back into the purple tier, California’s most restrictive COVID-19 tier. This tier means that many non-essential indoor businesses must close. The Apple Hill Growers are taking this very seriously and want to assure visitors that our farms and wineries are – and have been throughout the pandemic – implementing protocols in accordance with California Industry Guidance for COVID-19 operations.
“Our growers and member businesses are taking the necessary precautions to ensure that visitors can still safely come to our farm stands, bake shops and wineries,” said Chris Delfino of Delfino Farms and president of the Apple Hill Growers Association. “Our farms are considered
essential businesses and most of the experiences are outdoors, so by our nature we have been able to implement social distancing and other safety practices.”
There are a few tips that every visitor should know while planning their visit.
* Masks are required for all guests and employees. For the latest on California’s mask guidelines, click here.
* Using hand sanitizer before entering any business or interacting with staff is recommended. Many farms offer hand sanitizer at multiple locations.
* Limit your group to household members only.
* Businesses have been configured to allow for appropriate social distancing in all areas. Guests must adhere to social distancing minimums indoors, including while waiting in lines.
* Guests should enter farms and wineries at designated entrances and leave through designated exits only.
* Businesses are implementing safe payment options.
* Many wineries are taking reservations, so call ahead to secure your spot. Wineries can only accommodate guests outside. NO indoor tasting so dress warmly and bring a blanket!
Remember, if your preferred farm is particularly busy, there are more than 50 other area farms to explore – you may even find a new favorite!
As you make your plans to visit, we recommend that you check member websites, social media, or call ahead for any last-minute details to ensure a fun and successful experience. For more information visit www.applehill.com and follow us on Instagram and Facebook at @applehillofficial.
Last Call for Holiday Pies!
Here’s a list of some of your favorite Bake Shops
Apple Acres– Selling pies at the farm. Also taking orders by phone and on website.
Apple Pantry– Selling pies at farm Thur-Sun (Nov. 19-21), closed for season Nov. 22.
Apple Ridge Farms– Selling pies in person at the farm. Open 7 days (closed Thanksgiving) through Dec 6.
Bodhaine Ranch– Selling pies in person Mon-Wed (Nov. 23-25). Also taking orders by phone. Will be closing for the season after Nov. 29.
Delfino Farms– Selling pies at farm Fri-Mon (Nov. 20-23). Special orders can be made at delfinofarms.com and picked up Wed Nov 25. Bake shop closed for season Nov. 26.
Denver Dan’s– Taking orders through this Friday (Nov. 20) and also selling at the farm. Open 7 days(closed Thanksgiving) through Dec 6.
Fudge Factory Farm– Selling pies at farm. Also selling online for in person pick up. Can take pie reservations, too. Open 7 days (closed Thanksgiving) through Nov 30, then weekends only through Dec. 13.
Harris Family Farm– Selling pies at the farm. Also taking orders by phone. Open Mon – Wed. (Nov. 23-25). Closed on Thanksgiving. Christmas trees by reservation only. Bake shop open Thur-Sun through Christmas Eve.
High Hill Ranch– Selling pies at the ranch. Open 7 days (closed Thanksgiving) through Dec. 24.
Hidden Star Camino– Selling pies in person at farm. Also taking orders by phone and email (through Nov 24 for pick up Nov 25). Open 7days (closed Thanksgiving) through Nov 29, then open on weekends through Dec.
Larsen Apple Barn– Selling pies at the ranch. Open Sunday-Friday (closed Thanksgiving) through Nov. 29.
Pine O Mine– Selling pies at the farm until sold out. Open 7 days (closed Thanksgiving) through Nov 30.
Rainbow Orchards– Selling pies at the ranch and can take orders through Nov. 24 at 4pm at rainboworch@gmail.com for pick up Wed. 11/25. Open 7 days (closed Thanksgiving) through Nov 29, then weekends only through Dec. 13.
