Festival celebrates cherries, community

Jul. 25—Although this year's cherry harvest is meager, thanks to last winter's prolonged deep freeze, it won't stop locals and tourists alike from attending the much-anticipated Flathead Cherry Festival. The annual event returns to Polson July 27-28, filling downtown with cherry-themed festivities, food vendors, music, and diverse artisans and crafters.

Several local orchards are bringing fresh cherries to this year's festival, including the Last Best Place Orchard, Dutch Orchard, Gateway Orchard, Knapping Moose Orchards, Cherrywood Orchard and R&W Cherries. Producers also sell an array of delicious cherry products, including syrups, jams and juice.

"We don't expect to see any Rainers for sale at the festival, but we think the old red sweet variety of Lamberts will be predominating," wrote R&W proprietors Robin and Ward Marshall in a Facebook post.

The Flathead Cherry Festival is managed and presented by handMADE Montana in partnership with the Polson Chamber of Commerce.

The festival kicks off with a pancake breakfast, served from 7-10 a.m. Saturday at the Elks Lodge. Other activities include the sidewalk chalk art contest from noon-5 p.m. and the always popular cherry-pit spitting competition at 2 p.m.

Entries are still being accepted for the Foodie Competition held at 1 p.m. Sunday, July 28. Categories include Best Pie, Sweet, Savory, or Commercial; sign up at form.jotform.com/handmadeMT/FHCF24-Foodie.

Other highlights include:

Local Artists: Explore unique and handcrafted works from talented local artists, ranging from functional art to jewelry, ceramics and crafts.

Food Delights: Savor the flavors of summer with an array of cherry-inspired dishes and other local culinary treats offered by food vendors.

Live Music: Enjoy live performances from local musicians throughout the festival.

"The Flathead Cherry Festival is more than just a celebration of cherries; it's a celebration of community," writes festival organizer Carol Lynn Lapotka, owner of handMADE Montana. "Whether you're a local resident or a visitor, the festival offers a chance to connect, enjoy, and create lasting memories in the heart of Polson."

The festival is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday. Admission is free. Learn more at www.facebook.com/flatheadcherryfestival.