Bobbing for apples isn’t any easier at today’s Hillyard festival

A new kind of bobbing for apples was on display Saturday at the second annual Hillyard Harvest Festival on Market Street.

Instead of people dunking their heads in a pail of water, apples hung from strings tied to a tree.

It didn’t make it easier.

Five-year-old Isaiah Hallam was among the many who tried to sink their teeth into a juicy Green Bluff apple without using their hands. His eyes closed in concentration, he chased after the fruit with determination as it dangled and danced at the end of the string.

Finally, Kirsten Young of Liberty Tax Service, who operated the apple bobbing booth, told Hallam he could use his hands. He eagerly grasped the apple and started chewing.

Young said nearly everyone’s attempt to bite the low-hanging apple was fruitless and she eventually allowed them to use hands. “Otherwise, we’d be here forever,” she said. “One lady, a teenage girl, did it. It was a small apple.”

Young said it was fun to watch children and adults alike attempt to snag the fruit. “I’ve been giggling to myself just watching,” she said.

Hallam’s father, Kris Foley, said his son was enjoying children’s activities at the festival. “We wanted to get out and do something in the community,” he said.

Hallam was pleased he finally got the apple and didn’t care that he had to use his hands. “It was fun,” he said.