Fruit lovers have a new holiday to celebrate. Tomorrow, Dec. 9 commemorates the inaugural National Opal Apples Day, officially recognized on NationalToday.com. With a vivid bright yellow appearance, unique crunch, and sweet and tangy flavor, Opal apples stand out in the orchard.

The New York Apple Association is showcasing Appletizer ideas on its social media platforms — just in time for the holidays.

“Appletizers are the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season, whether you are hosting a party for friends or a Christmas dinner,” said Cynthia Haskins, president and CEO of the NYAA. “We are taking cross-merchandising to a new level this holiday season. We are encouraging retailers to build large displays of New York apples along with simple, easy-to-grab-and-go pairing ideas for the holiday season.”

Amid a smaller national apple crop, Cosmic Crisp apples will launch as a year-round variety on Dec. 1 as it grows in volume, especially in organics. Cosmic Crisp is poised for promotion this season and retailers can ensure an organic ring at checkout with Stemilt’s EZ Band.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development named the Michigan Apple Committee as a recipient of two grants from the 2022 USDA Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. In total, MAC will receive $200,000 dedicated to marketing efforts focused on consumer and retail audiences.

Envy apples will kick off the 2022 holiday season with significant momentum thanks to a comprehensive marketing campaign designed to drive consumer trials, stimulate repeat purchases and inspire expanded usage occasions.

At the IFPA Global Produce & Floral Show, folks from Crunch Time Apple Growers were spreading the exciting news that RubyFrost apples would be back in stores in November, just in time for the holidays.