A Once in a Lifetime Celebration
There is always something special about summer in Traverse City, but this year feels a little bigger, a little brighter, and a lot more memorable.
Patrick with brother Alex, brother-in-law Dom and friend Chris at 2013 Cherry Festival for Journey Concert
The National Cherry Festival is celebrating its 100th festival, and it also lines up with America’s 250th birthday. It is one of those rare moments where everything comes together, making this festival one you will be glad you experienced in person.
If you are planning a summer stay, this is the week that brings the whole area to life.
A Tradition Rooted in Northern Michigan
What started as small blossom celebrations in the early 1900s has grown into one of the country’s most beloved festivals. Today, it welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, all drawn by the same simple idea, celebrating cherries, community, and summer on the bay.
The 2026 festival runs July 4 through July 11, and this year’s milestone makes it even more meaningful.
What Makes This Year Different
This is not just another festival year.
It is a celebration of:
- 100 National Cherry Festivals in Traverse City
- 250 years of the United States
- The return of a couple of fan favorite events
Two longtime favorites are making a comeback:
- Milk Carton Boat Regatta, where teams race boats built from milk cartons
- Bed Races, a fun and fast paced crowd favorite before the parade
If you have never seen these before, they are exactly the kind of lighthearted fun that makes the festival so memorable.
Cousin Ryker at Pie Eating Contest
Favorite Events to Check Out
There are more than 100 events during the week, and most of them are free. You can keep things simple or fill your days from morning to night. If you like to plan ahead, it is worth taking a few minutes to look through the full event schedule before you arrive.
Here are a few worth adding to your plans:
Family Fun
- Kids Club with games, crafts, and space to play
- Kids Chalk Art, always a favorite and fun to watch
For something unique
- Cherry Pit Spitting Contest
- Cherry Pie Eating Contest
- Ultimate Air Dogs jumping into the bay
Active Days
- Festival of Races with beautiful bay views
- Cornhole tournaments during the week
Evening fun
- Bayside concerts with big name artists
- Fireworks over West Bay on July 4 and July 11
- And if you only pick one thing, the Air Show over the bay is always a highlight.
Uncle Alex and his Princess Katie
A Couple of Fun Family Connections
One of the things that makes this festival special for our family is the personal connection we have to it.
Patrick’s sister, Ronessa, won in the teen category at the Kids Chalk Art event in 1997, and their mom still has the plaque. His younger brother, Alex, was part of the 1998 Cherry Royale court as a Prince, alongside his Princess, classmate, and neighbor Katie Fouch. Their school float even won most artistic, and yes, Mom still has that plaque too 😊
These are the kinds of memories that stick with you. It is not just a big event, it is something families come back to year after year.
For us, it is also a reminder that this is not just a vacation home we manage from a distance. This is Patrick and Lauren’s place, filled with our family stories, and we are happy to share it with you when we are not here.
Food, Rides, and Classic Festival Fun
You will find all the festival favorites here.
- Fresh cherries and local treats
- Classic fair food like fries and turkey legs
- The midway with rides and games
- The Ferris wheel with views of the bay
It is easy to spend an afternoon just wandering, snacking, and taking it all in.
2025 Fireworks at The National Cherry Festival
Parades and Fireworks
The festival includes two parades that are easy to enjoy with the whole family.
- Community Royale Parade, a fun evening event celebrating local tradition
- Cherry Royale Parade, a classic daytime parade with floats and bands
And of course, the fireworks.
There are two nights to enjoy them, including the grand finale on July 11. This year’s show also celebrates the country’s 250th birthday, which makes it even more special.
A Few Simple Tips to Make Your Visit Easier
A little planning goes a long way during festival week.
- Bring swimsuits for the kids, the bay is perfect for cooling off
- Set a simple meeting spot if your group splits up
- Take the free Bayline shuttle to avoid parking stress
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen
Keeping things easy helps you enjoy more of the day.
Fireworks over Dyer Lake
Why Staying at Dyer Lake Makes It Even Better
The main festival takes place along the waterfront in downtown Traverse City, and it can get busy.
That is why many guests enjoy staying just outside the crowds.
Dyer Lake Vacation Home is about a 10 minute drive from downtown, close enough to enjoy everything, but far enough to come back and relax at the end of the day.
After a full day of events, you can:
- Come back to a quiet space
- Sit by the lake and unwind
- Let the kids settle in without the noise and crowds
It is a simple way to balance the energy of the festival with a more peaceful place to recharge.
Plan Ahead for This One
This year’s festival is expected to be one of the busiest yet.
Between the 100 year celebration and the 250th birthday of the United States, it is the kind of event people plan for well in advance.
If you are thinking about visiting, it is a good idea to secure your stay now and keep your plans simple. That week just opened up at Dyer Lake Vacation Home, but it will fill quickly!
Final Thoughts
The National Cherry Festival has always been about more than cherries.
It is about traditions, summer memories, and time spent together.
This year adds a little extra meaning to all of that.
If you happen to be here during this week, you are going to experience something truly special.
Looking to stay in Traverse City?
Looking for the perfect place to stay in Traverse City? Our vacation home is centrally located, just minutes from Downtown Traverse City and an easy drive to surrounding activities. Whether you’re here to get lost on the trails, explore local wineries, or explore downtown, you’ll be right in the heart of it all.
Skip the extra fees—book direct and save! Or, if you prefer, you can reserve your stay through Airbnb.
📅 Ready to plan your getaway? Book now and experience everything the Traverse City area has to offer!
