From Staff Reports 

HENDERSONVILLE —  A family-friendly New Year’s Eve Apple Rise celebration to ring in 2023 will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 31 in the plaza of the Historic Courthouse downtown.

Asheville television station WLSO (News 13) described the celebration — highlighted by the raising of a giant apple — as being “for families that might not be able to make it to midnight.” In the same story, News 13 noted that the event will be held early in the evening, “ so kids can still get to bed on time.”

Through the ceremony, Hendersonville will pay homage to its status as North Carolina’s so-called “Apple Capital” by raising a giant apple on the plaza.

Meanwhile, the gala is being touted by its host, Henderson County, as “perfect for families with young children — or those who wish to enjoy an early, alcohol-free celebration.”

Beginning at 5 p.m. , the free event will feature New Year’s Eve swag giveaways, a DJ dance party, hot cocoa, games, craft vendors, food and beverages — all leading up to the apple rise countdown at 7 p.m. 

“My favorite part is watching the enjoyment on all the kids’ and families’ faces as they celebrate and ring in the new year,” Bridgette Thompson of Henderson County Parks & Rec, told News 13 in its story on the upcoming event.

Meanwhile, in a Sept. 21 story, FoxCarolina.com reported that “Henderson County Extension Director Terry Kelley says apples are a key crop for the county.

“‘The apple industry is worth a little over 30 million dollars to the Henderson County economy. It’s one of the two largest agricultural crops (with ornamentals No. 1) in the county,’ Kelley said.

“Hendersonville is the top apple-grower in North Carolina and one of the top in the country. Apples also bring a lot of jobs to the county.”

When asked “why she thinks their apples are so special,” Robbie Goolsby said it’s because ‘they’re made with love,'" FoxCarolina.com noted.