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Cherry Industry
Most of Michigan's sweet cherry production is concentrated in the Traverse City area. Many of the golden sweet varieties are made into maraschino cherries. The cherry season starts in July and can last into August. The countryside is dotted with stands, markets, and u-pick signs offering cartons of sweet, dark cherries. And sometimes the cherries soak in the ice cold water to keep them fresh.
Introducing A Very Cherry Passport
Your guide to the cherry capital of the world; explore the exciting cherry industry of Traverse City and its surrounding areas! From charming cafés to picturesque orchards and iconic landmarks, discover the essence of cherries at every stop.
The History of Cherries
Appreciation of the cherry has a long history. In 1924, the Traverse City area held a spring ceremony known as the "Blessing of the Blossoms" to celebrate the cherry and the region's affinity for it. The event eventually became the National Cherry Festival held in Traverse City each July.
Additional Cherry Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Traverse City known for cherries?
Traverse City and the surrounding region produce a significant share of the country's tart cherry crop thanks to a unique combination of geography and climate. The area sits along Lake Michigan, whose waters moderate temperatures on land — keeping frosts at bay long enough for cherry trees to bloom and summers cool enough for the fruit to thrive. The rolling hills of the Old Mission and Leelanau peninsulas provide ideal soil drainage, making the region one of the best cherry-growing environments in the world. That agricultural heritage runs deep, which is why cherries show up everywhere here!
