While Saturday turned out to be a beautiful day to be outside, North Reading residents did not have to venture very far to enjoy the day.

The 18th annual North Reading Historical Society's Apple Festival with an apple pie contest, crafters, local entertainment, pony rides and children's activities, raffles, food and drink was held on the grounds of the Reverend Daniel Putnam House.

Both well attended, Patch spoke to North Reading residents at the Apple Festival, many who have been going for a number of years.

Peggy and Phil Spencer who have lived in town for over 25 years, said they have been attending the Apple Festival since it started. They said it was a fun day for them and their son Peter, 8, with apple pies and games.

"Plus, we live right up the street," explained Phil Spencer.

Janice Gray attended the festival for the first time and was impressed with the organization of the festival. Her daughter Caraline, 12, performed with the NRHS Cheer squad.

"It is nice when the community gets together to benefit the historical society," Gray said.

Long-time resident Mary Staples said that attending the Festival has become a tradition for her family.

"I brought my children and now my grandchildren, here," she said. She described the festival as community oriented, and it is great to see people she knows.

New to North Reading, Sarah Read moved here a year ago with her husband Ben, the youth pastor of Trinity Evangelist Church.

Offering free cider at their booth, Read said, "We're enjoying the experience. We're just here to get to know people and be a presence."

The most popular booth was sampling of the 14 apple pies made by the Interact Club at North Reading High School.  Director of Youth Services Erica Hansen said her volunteers helped set up the tent and were serving the pies.

Jeff Joy who has lived in town for 17 years sat at a table relishing two different pies topped with ice cream.

"I can't decided which is better. They are both delicious," he said.