Apple season in Quebec is an eagerly awaited time of year when orchards open their doors for self-picking. It’s a great time to harvest fresh apples while enjoying outdoor activities.
When is apple picking season in Quebec?
The apple picking season in Quebec generally begins at the end of August and continues until the end of October. This period of time allows the various apple varieties to ripen at their own pace, offering a range of tastes and textures. Early varieties, such as Paula Red, are often ready by the end of August, while late varieties, such as Cortland, reach full maturity in October.
What’s the best time for apple picking?
The best time to pick apples varies according to variety, but in general, September is the peak of the apple-picking season. During this period, most orchards are in full operation,
and the weather conditions are ideal for a day out with family and friends. Cider houses also open their doors for tastings and guided tours.
When to harvest apples in Quebec, by variety?
Each apple variety has its own harvest period. Here’s a chart to help you plan your harvest:
| Apple variety | Harvest period |
| Ambrosia | Mid-October |
| Délicieuse rouge | Mid-October |
| Cortland | Early October |
| Empire | Early October |
| Gala | Mid-September |
| Honeycrisp | Mid-September |
| McIntosh | Mid-September |
| Paula Red | Late August |
| Spartan | Third week of September |
| Sunrise | Third week of August to late August |
| Vista Bella | Mid-August |
Apple Guide
Gala, Paula Red, Spartan…Are you lost among all the apple varieties? Don’t panic! Whether you’re looking for the perfect apple for your recipes, or just a sweet, crunchy apple to enjoy, our apple guide is here to help you tell them apart.
Where to pick apples in Quebec?
Quebec is full of beautiful orchards where you can pick your own apples. Some of these orchards also offer activities for the whole family, such as tractor rides, corn mazes, and tastings of local products like maple syrup and apple fritters.
When does the apple picking season end?
Apple season generally ends at the end of October, although some late varieties may be available until early November. Late-harvested apples, such as the Empire, Ambrosia or Délicieuse rouge, are often the best-kept, allowing tasting to continue well beyond the end of the picking season. What’s more, today’s climate-controlled rooms make it possible to eat Quebec apples all year round.
What to do with your apples?
Freshly picked apples offer a multitude of culinary possibilities. You can enjoy them as they are for their juicy, sweet flesh, or use them to make classics like apple pie, apple donut holes, and apple crumble. Apples are also ideal for making applesauce, apple cider and apple butter. Their versatility in the kitchen allows you to create tasty dishes and share gourmet moments with your family. It’s important to keep your apples refrigerated to maximize their freshness and keep them crisp.
Apple season in Quebec is a special time to reconnect with nature, savour local produce and share family moments. Whether you’re nostalgic for your childhood or proud to support local traditions, there’s always a good reason to visit an orchard and enjoy the richness of this season.