Traverse City Cherry Festival Uncovered: Must-See Events and Tips

The Magic of the Traverse City Cherry Festival

Perched along the sparkling shores of Lake Michigan, Traverse City transforms into a haven for cherry lovers each summer during the National Cherry Festival. From June 29 to July 6, 2024, this iconic event invites visitors to immerse themselves in a week of vibrant festivities celebrating the region’s rich cherry heritage. Whether you’re drawn by the irresistible flavors, the lively entertainment, or the stunning natural beauty, the Cherry Festival promises an unforgettable experience for all who attend.

Getting There: A Summer Road Trip Worth Taking

Traverse City is a scenic destination within easy driving distance from several major Midwest cities. If you’re traveling from Detroit, expect a journey of about 4 hours, covering roughly 250 miles as you wind your way north through Michigan’s lush landscapes. From Chicago, the trip is around 5 hours and 320 miles, taking you along the shores of Lake Michigan before veering into the heart of cherry country.

As you approach Traverse City, the anticipation builds with every orchard you pass, signaling that you’re close to the heart of the cherry capital of the world.

A Tradition Rooted in Local Flavor

The festival’s roots date back to 1925, evolving from a small community event into one of the largest and most beloved celebrations in the Midwest. Today, the festival boasts over 150 events, drawing more than 500,000 visitors annually. Traverse City’s reputation as the “Cherry Capital of the World” is on full display, with cherries featured in nearly every aspect of the festivities, from culinary delights to lively parades.

Festival Highlights: What to Experience

The festival’s schedule is brimming with activities for all ages, making it a perfect outing for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Here are some highlights you won’t want to miss:

• Cherry Royale Parade (July 6th): A grand spectacle featuring vibrant floats, marching bands, and local celebrities. The parade weaves through downtown Traverse City, offering a colorful display of community pride.
• Air Show (July 4th): The U.S. Navy Blue Angels are expected to headline the festival’s air show, a thrilling aerial performance over West Grand Traverse Bay.
• Cherry Pit Spitting Championship (July 2nd): Channel your inner competitor at the iconic Cherry Pit Spitting Championship, where participants aim to break records in this quirky contest. Held at the Open Space Park, it’s a crowd favorite.
• Sara Hardy Downtown Farmers Market: Start your mornings with a visit to the Sara Hardy Farmers Market, where you can sample and purchase fresh cherries and cherry products from local farms like King Orchards and Gallagher’s Farm Market.

Culinary Delights

Cherry-Inspired Cuisine: Exploring the Food Stalls

During the Traverse City Cherry Festival, you’ll be delighted by the wide range of cherry-inspired dishes available throughout the event. At the various food stalls, you can treat your taste buds to some delicious treats, such as cherry pie, cherry-infused barbecue sauce on your favorite grilled meats, cherry salsa, and even cherry cheesecake!

At the farmers market, local producers showcase their fresh cherries and other cherry products for you to taste and take home. You’ll notice the vibrant shades of red and purple which stimulate your senses as you browse the offerings.

Cooking Demonstrations: Learning from Chefs

Feeling inspired to create your own cherry-based culinary masterpieces? You’re in luck! The Traverse City Cherry Festival offers cooking demonstrations led by expert chefs, who will guide you through the process of creating delicious cherry dishes.

Here’s a glimpse of what you can learn from the cooking demonstrations:

1. Sauces and Marinades: Adding cherries to your sauces and marinades can give a new dimension to your meals.
2. Desserts: Perfect the art of making irresistible cherry desserts, such as pies and galettes
3. Salads and Side Dishes: Discover how cherries can add a burst of flavor to your salads and other side dishes.

Cherry Competitions and Events

The Cherry Pit Spitting Contest: A Festival Favorite

Have you ever tried cherry pit spitting? The Cherry Pit Spitting Contest at the Traverse City Cherry Festival is a fun and popular event! Contestants of all ages gather to see who can spit a cherry pit the farthest. The current world record for cherry pit spitting is an impressive 93 feet and 6.5 inches, set by Brian “Young Gun” Krause in 2004. Do you think you can break that record? Come and give it a shot!

Baking Contests: Celebrating Cherry-Flavored Creations

Cherries are not just for eating right out of the bowl – they make amazing ingredients in baking recipes too. Traverse City Cherry Festival features various baking contests where talented bakers showcase their cherry-flavored creations.

Some notable events include:

• Cherry Pie Bake-Off: Amateur and professional bakers compete to create the most delicious cherry pie.
• Cherry-Infused Desserts: Show off your culinary talents by incorporating cherries in unique and unexpected ways.

Races

Not just about cherries and baking, the festival also hosts several races, including a 5K run and bike race, both celebrating the beautiful cherry orchards.

World’s Largest Cherry Pie

No cherry festival would be complete without acknowledging the world’s largest cherry pie! At an astonishing 28,350 pounds, the record was set in 1987 by the town of Traverse City. Talk about an ultimate cherry on top of an already fantastic festival!

Art and Culture: Celebrate Local Creativity

The festival isn’t just about cherries; it’s also a celebration of the local arts scene. Traverse City’s vibrant community of artists and craftspeople is showcased throughout the event.

• Arts & Crafts Fair (July 1st-4th): Over 100 artisans from across the Midwest gather at the Open Space Park to display their handcrafted goods, including pottery, jewelry, and paintings.
• Street Performers: Wander downtown and enjoy impromptu performances from local musicians, jugglers, and acrobats, adding a festive ambiance to the city streets.

Where to Stay: Comfort and Convenience

Accommodations in Traverse City range from luxurious lakeside resorts to charming bed-and-breakfasts. For a classic Michigan experience, consider booking a room at the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa, where you can unwind after a day of festivities with a round of golf or a visit to their award-winning spa. Alternatively, the Hotel Indigo offers a modern stay with stunning views of West Grand Traverse Bay.

Given the festival’s popularity, it’s wise to book your stay well in advance. Many hotels offer special rates for festival-goers, so be sure to inquire when making your reservation.

Family-Friendly Activities

Fun for All Ages: Kid-Friendly Attractions

Traverse City Cherry Festival offers a variety of family-friendly activities to entertain both kids and adults. Who can resist a cherry pie-eating contest or a cherry pit-spitting contest? Not only are these contests fun to participate in, but they also come with prizes for the winners.

If your little ones love furry friends, they won’t want to miss the kids pet show! This adorable event showcases a range of pets and is sure to leave everyone smiling.

Additionally, fun-filled events like the Cherry Parade and water dog show ensure that every member of your family remains engaged and entertained.

Educational Activities: Learning About Cherries

Did you know that the National Cherry Festival began in 1925 as the “Blessing of the Blossoms”? It aimed to celebrate the area’s abundant cherry crop. While you’re enjoying the festivities, don’t forget to take the opportunity to learn about cherries and their significance to the region.

Festival organizers emphasize the importance of educating visitors about cherry cultivation and the agricultural history of Traverse City. You’ll find booths and exhibits dedicated to providing information on cherry-related topics. So, while you’re indulging in delicious cherry pies and cherry beer, you can also learn about the history and processes that brought these treats to the table.

Cherry Orchards Tours

Traverse City Cherry Festival provides a wonderful opportunity for you to dive deep into the world of cherry farming. Let’s explore the two fantastic ways of experiencing cherry orchards during the festival.

Guided Orchard Tours: Exploring Cherry Farms

Embark on guided orchard tours and learn the ins and outs of cherry farming. You’ll visit various cherry farms in the area, where cherry growers will reveal their techniques and practices for growing and harvesting these delicious fruits. What’s the ideal time to pick cherries? How do the growers ensure their trees stay healthy? Find out the answers to these questions and more!

To make the most of your experience, here’s a list of cherry farms you can visit during the festival:

1. Cherry U-Pick: 555 Wilson Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686
2. Rennie Orchards: 11221 Monroe Rd, Williamsburg, MI 49690
3. Cherry Connection: 12414 Center Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686

Meet the Growers: Insights from Local Farmers

Another exciting way to experience cherry orchards during the Traverse City Cherry Festival is to meet the growers themselves. Local cherry farmers gladly share their knowledge, expertise, and passion for growing cherries. They’ll show you around their orchards, offering valuable insights into the history, cultivation, and varieties of cherries.

Live Entertainment

Musical Performances: The Festival’s Soundtrack

At the Traverse City Cherry Festival, you’ll be treated to an amazing lineup of musical performances. With a wide variety of genres and styles, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In previous years, big names like musician Sheryl Crow and comedian Jim Gaffigan have graced the stage, showcasing the festival’s dedication to providing quality entertainment. So, keep your eyes peeled for the upcoming concert announcements and get ready to dance the night away!

Street Performers and Parades: The Heartbeat of the Festival

In addition to the musical performances, Traverse City Cherry Festival is also known for its vibrant street performers and lively parades. As you make your way through the event, you’ll encounter talented artists and entertainers showcasing their skills for all to enjoy. There’s no shortage of surprises, from jugglers and acrobats to living statues!

Don’t miss out on the festival’s signature parades either. The event schedule typically includes:

• Cherry Royale Parade: A grand display of floats, marching bands, and, of course, cherries!
• Junior Royale Parade: Featuring adorable performances by local children and youth groups
• Festival Air Show: An airborne spectacle that will have you looking up in awe, featuring expert pilots performing incredible maneuvers

Community Impact

Boosting Local Business: The Economic Influence of the Festival

Did you know that the Traverse City Cherry Festival has a significant impact on the local economy? With an influx of half a million visitors each year, local businesses see a surge in customers, from hotels and restaurants to small shops and vendors. This yearly influx boosts revenue and helps to sustain businesses during the slower seasons. The festival, which will take place from June 29th to July 6th, 2024, is a win-win for both the community and tourists alike.

Charitable Initiatives: Giving Back Through the Festival

The National Cherry Festival is not only an economic powerhouse for the area, but it also gives back to the community through various charitable initiatives. Each year, the festival partners with local nonprofit organizations to support their missions and raise awareness on important causes.

Some examples of how the event benefits local nonprofits include:

• Fundraising opportunities: Nonprofit organizations can operate booths during the festival, generating additional funds for their causes.
• Awareness campaigns: The festival’s platform allows the community to learn about the initiatives that nonprofits are working on in the region.
• Direct donations: A portion of the proceeds from specific festival events is donated to partner organizations, directly supporting their missions.

Health and Fitness Events

Cherry Festival Races: From Fun Runs to Marathons

The Cherry Festival isn’t just about eating, it’s also about staying fit and healthy. That’s why you’ll find multiple races catering to all ages and fitness levels during the festival.

From fun runs to marathons, there’s a race for everyone. Some of the popular race categories include:

• 5K
• 10K
• 15K
• Half-marathon

Accommodation and Travel

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options in Traverse City

When planning your visit to the Traverse City Cherry Festival, finding the perfect place to stay is crucial. Traverse City offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every taste and budget. From luxurious hotels to budget-friendly lake rentals, you’ll find various options close to the festival grounds.

Don’t forget to book your accommodations well in advance, as the hotels nearest to the festival tend to fill up quickly for this popular event.

Getting Around: Transportation Tips for Festival Goers

Getting around Traverse City during the Cherry Festival is a breeze with various transportation options available to you. Here are some tips on how to navigate the city efficiently during the festivities:

• Parking: Arrive early to secure a parking spot in the parking garages located on Front Street and Park. Event parking may cost around $15 for the day. Alternatively, you can park in the downtown Hardy parking.
• Bayline Shuttle: Utilize the Bayline Shuttle service, which operates throughout the festival, making it easy to travel between downtown locations and the Open Space Park.
• Walking and Biking: Traverse City is known for its walkable and bike-friendly streets. Feel free to stroll or cycle to the festival and enjoy the lovely summer weather.

Culinary Tours and Wine Tastings

Cherry Flavors: Local Culinary Tours

Traverse City National Cherry Festival is a wonderful opportunity for you to indulge in mouthwatering cherry-flavored dishes. Celebrate the rich and diverse culinary scene during the festival with the Cherry Flavors: Local Culinary Tours. These tours take you on an exciting journey through local eateries, giving you an opportunity to taste a variety of cherry-inspired scrumptious cuisines.

Several local restaurants, cafes, and food trucks participate in these tours, offering different types of cherry-based dishes, including both savory and sweet selections. Curious about what you can expect?

• Sweet treats: Cherry pies, cherry-topped cheesecakes, cherry scones, and more.
• Savory dishes: Cherry-glazed pork ribs, cherry salsa, cherry-infused BBQ sauce, and more.

Wine Tasting Events: Exploring Local Vineyards

In addition to the culinary tours, you can also enjoy a variety of wine-tasting experiences in Traverse City during the Cherry Festival. The region is known for its beautiful vineyards, exquisite wine, and amazing events that let you explore the wine country.

Some popular wine events happening in and around Traverse City include:

• Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trails: Enjoy curated tours through the picturesque Old Mission Peninsula, savoring award-winning wines from various local vineyards.
• Traverse City Uncorked: A month-long event showcasing local wines, with wine tastings, special offers, and winery events across the region.
• Winter Activities on the Traverse Wine Coast: Experience a one-of-a-kind 5.5-mile winter snowshoe tour connecting several local wineries and enjoy a warm, catered lunch along the way.

Beyond the Festival

Exploring Traverse City: Attractions Beyond the Festival

While you’re in Traverse City for the National Cherry Festival, take some time to explore the other attractions this charming city offers. The Open Space, a popular public park that hosts the festival, is an excellent spot for picnics and strolls with beautiful views of the Grand Traverse Bay. A few other points of interest to consider include:

• Wineries and Breweries: Traverse City is known for its exceptional wine and craft beer scene. You can sample local delights at various tasting rooms throughout the city.
• Beaches: Soak up the sun at one of the numerous beaches found along the bay. Relax by the water or venture out for a refreshing swim.
• Trails and Nature: Traverse City is a haven for nature lovers. Experience the tranquility of the outdoors on hiking and biking trails. The Traverse Area Recreation and Transportation (TART) Trail is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Shopping and Dining: Treat yourself to a memorable shopping and dining experience by exploring the diverse stores and eateries in Traverse City’s bustling downtown district.

A City of Culture: Discovering Traverse City’s Charm

Traverse City’s rich culture and history are awe-inspiring. Beyond the Cherry Festival, you can discover the city’s charm through various experiences:

• Art Galleries: Traverse City’s art scene is thriving, with numerous galleries showcasing the work of both local and national artists.
• Historic Sites: Immerse yourself in the region’s history by visiting preserved landmarks such as the Grand Traverse Lighthouse and Mission Point Lighthouse.
• Performing Arts: Don’t miss the opportunity to catch a performance at one of the city’s theaters, like the Old Town Playhouse or City Opera House.

Why Go the Cherry Festival?

What makes the Traverse City Cherry Festival truly special is its seamless blend of local tradition, breathtaking scenery, and community spirit. The festival isn’t just an event—it’s a celebration of the region’s agricultural heritage, the artistry of its residents, and the vibrant culture that makes Traverse City a destination worth exploring.

Whether you’re here for the cherries, the lakeside views, or the lively atmosphere, the Cherry Festival is a quintessential summer experience in Northern Michigan. So mark your calendar, plan your trip, and get ready to be immersed in a world where cherries reign supreme.