On September 26, 2015, Michigan Apple Fest kicked off an inaugural annual event that reached roughly 3,500 visitors over a six-hour period. The event featured Michigan Apples in food and beverages sold by  local restaurants, cider and donut tasting competitions from farmers markets, local history of apples in Michigan, and kids games featuring Johnny Appleseed with hands on activities promoting healthy eating.

The organization is operated by the Sparta Area Chamber of Commerce and consists of committee members throughout the Ridge area.