The National Cherry Festival is turning 100 this year, and Traverse City is celebrating in a big way.
Really big.
From the world’s largest cherry pie tin to national acts like Ludacris and Daughtry, the annual event promises to be packed, with plenty to eat and things to do. The cherry festival runs for 11 days this year, from July 4-11.
“As we look ahead to our 100th Celebration … we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to our growers, partners, vendors, sponsors, volunteers, and community leaders for their ongoing commitment to the National Cherry Festival,” the event website reads.
“We’re proud to be part of the Cherry Capital of the World and can’t wait to celebrate 100 years with you.”
Here’s what to know:
What is the National Cherry Festival?
The National Cherry Festival recognizes Michigan’s and Traverse City’s cherry-growing industry, organizers say.
The festival features concerts, races, art competitions, marching bands, a parade, cherry-themed food products, an air show and more.
One popular, long-standing tradition is the Bed Race, featuring creatively decorated beds on wheels.
When is the National Cherry Festival?
The National Cherry Festival takes place July 4-11.
Where is the National Cherry Festival?
The National Cherry Festival is in Traverse City, where about 500,000 people attend each year.
The event was first held in 1926.
Many events take place at Open Space Park, near Union Street and Grandview Parkway in Traverse City, but events are spread across the area.
Check the event calendar for specific locations.
How much does it cost?
The National Cherry Festival has over 150 events, with 85% of them free, organizers say.
Musical performances and some other events, including beach volleyball, do cost money, according to the organization’s website.
Tickets range from $68 for general admission to $128 for reserved seating.
The event calendar lets visitors see if the event has an associated cost.
Who is performing at the National Cherry Festival?
The musical lineup includes David Lee Roth with Ayron Jones, Bow Wow and Soulja Boy, Chase Matthew and Lauren Alaina, KC and the Sunshine Band with The Spinners, The Fray with special guest Augustana, Daughtry, Justin Moore with Easton Corbin and Ludacris.
Will there be cherries at the National Cherry Festival? Can I pick them
While you cannot pick cherries at the festival, Traverse City is rich with cherry farms. The festival provides a list of options on its website.
However, cherries will be available at the festival in all forms.
There are fresh cherries, cherry cheese, cherry chocolate, cherry pie, cherry margaritas, and more.
Free Press reporters Darcie Moran and Jenna Prestininzi contributed reporting.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: National Cherry Festival returns for 100th year to Traverse City
Reporting by Jalen Williams, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Jalen Williams, Detroit Free Press | USA TODAY Network
