News

Apple Festival Window Display winners announced

Goldsmith by Rudi won first place in the retail business cetegory of the Apple Festival Window Display Contest.

By Lightning Reports, Published: August 31, 2025

Hendersonville was alive with festive flair this Apple Festival weekend as local businesses competed in the annual Apple Festival Window Display Contest, a tradition of the North Carolina Apple Festival.

Each year, businesses throughout the city are transformed into a vibrant showcase of apple-themed creativity, and 2025 was no exception. Businesses embraced this year’s theme, “Orchard Roots, Mountain Spirit,” designing imaginative displays that celebrated Hendersonville’s deep-rooted apple heritage and community pride. After judging, winners were announced during the festival’s opening ceremony.
Retail Category:
1st Place: The Goldsmith by Rudi, Ltd.
2nd Place: American Refinery
3rd Place: Willow Hill Soap Company
Bank category:
1st Place (Tie): First Citizens Bank, Four Seasons; First Bank

Special Recognitions

Honorable Mention: Bellwether’s Landing
Historical Display: Henderson County Heritage Museum
Outdoor Display: Carolina Ace Hardware

“The window displays are more than just decorations; they are a testament to the creativity, dedication, and community spirit of our downtown merchants,” Downtown Coordinator Terrye Jacobs said. “We are grateful to every participating business for making downtown an even more welcoming and festive destination during the Apple Festival.”
Special thanks to all participating businesses also included: Doll Clothes Factory, Narnia Studios, Beverly Hanks Real Estate, The Beehive Resale Shop, ECLAT Realty + Company, OP Taylor’s Toys, Four Seasons Hospice Home Store, Piggy's Ice Cream Parlor & Harry's Grill, and Emma’s Baby Boutique.