The Northborough Rotary Club has officially requested the closure of Blake Street for the upcoming Applefest Street Fair, scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024, with a rain date set for Sunday, September 22. The event, which has become a staple of the Applefest weekend, aims to foster community spirit while serving as a fundraiser for local needs.

Skip and Pat Doyle, members of the Rotary Club, presented the proposal during a recent government meeting, emphasizing the fair's significance in bringing residents together. They highlighted that the funds raised from the event are reinvested into the community, supporting various initiatives such as providing defibrillators for schools.

This year’s fair is expected to feature over 70 vendors and more than 100 booths, showcasing a diverse range of local businesses and organizations, including food vendors, historical societies, and community groups. Notable participants include Wegmans, the Northborough Historical Society, and local churches.

In a new initiative dubbed the \"Greening of Applefest,\" the Rotary Club is promoting sustainability by encouraging attendees to bring their own water bottles, as plastic bottles will not be permitted. Free water stations will be available, and efforts will be made to educate attendees on recycling practices.

The street fair will run from 10 AM to 3 PM, with vendors expected to remain throughout the event. The Rotary Club aims to create an enjoyable atmosphere while also addressing environmental concerns, marking a progressive step for the annual celebration.