FLY CREEK, NY - The Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard will hold its annual CiderFest on October 8 & 9 from 10:00 until 4:00. The weekend features the Mill doing what it does best, making fresh, sweet cider the old-fashioned way on its 1889 water-powered cider press. Pressing demonstrations will be performed by Chris Molloy. "I will show visitors how we still make cider as it was produced back in 1889. Our water-turbine is used to power the traditional rack-and-cloth press method for making our famous sweet cider," says Chris.

Outside the Mill the CiderFest offers demonstrations of its large collection of hand-operated presses dating back to the mid-1850's. These presses once were a necessity on every farm before commercial mills like the Fly Creek Cider Mill were established. The hand presses allowed the pioneering farmers to make cider that was fermented for later consumption or turned into vinegar for preserving the vegetable harvest by pickling. Families are encouraged to participate in operating the presses for the fun of it.

Returning this year is the International Society of Apple Parer Enthusiasts (IAPES) who will display apple peeling equipment ranging from home peelers to commercial slicers. The Mill's present day founder, Charlie Michaels will lead the IAPES team by showing his collection of over 100 peelers, restored commercial slicers and a Telegraph hand operated cider press.

Inside the Mill visitors may sample fresh apples, cider, and more than 40 different specialty foods including extra-sharp cheddar cheese, sweet butter-cream fudge, apple and corn salsas plus many wines and hard ciders from the Mill's Farm Winery.

Sunday will feature a performance by lyricist and impressionist, Ody B. Goldy, who will entertain visitors with his humorous tributes to well-known performers. Name the song and writer and win some fresh cider. There is no admission charge and parking is free.

The Fly Creek Cider Mill is located just three miles from the Village of Cooperstown and is open every day 9:00 until 6:00. For more information on this and other events at the Fly Creek Cider Mill visit their website at www.flycreekcidermill.com.