Flathead Cherry Festival

The Flathead Cherry Festival is an annual summer event in downtown Polson, Montana, celebrating the region's famous Flathead cherries. This vibrant festival features local and regional artists showcasing handcrafted goods, cherry-themed treats, a variety of delicious food options, and activities for all ages. It's a community-centered event that highlights local businesses, fosters connections, and offers a unique shopping experience while celebrating the rich agricultural heritage of the Flathead Lake region.

FLATHEAD CHERRY FESTIVAL JULY 26-27, 2025 // MAIN STREET POLSON, MT //APPLY

The Flathead Cherry Festival is a beloved summer tradition in Polson, Montana, celebrating the region’s world-famous cherries and the vibrant community that makes this town special. Held in the heart of downtown Polson, the festival brings together local and regional artists, food vendors, and businesses for a lively open-air market filled with cherry-themed delights, handmade goods, and family-friendly fun. Beyond the festivities, the Flathead Cherry Festival plays a vital role in supporting the local economy, providing a platform for small businesses, artisans, and growers to showcase their talents and products to thousands of visitors. This cherished event fosters community connections, highlights Polson’s unique charm, and reinforces its place as a hub for creativity, agriculture, and local pride.

APPLY

Explore the rich history of cherries and indulge in a delightful shopping experience featuring a carefully curated selection of talented artists, unique vendors, and freshly baked treats. Relax, cool down under the tent by the food court, and take it all in. Stroll down the streets, meeting local and regional artists and businesses, all while satisfying your taste buds with various delectable foods and treats. In the heart of it all, Polson stands as a truly unique and beautiful destination, inviting you to see, savor, and appreciate its extraordinary offerings. More details to come soon about the Foodie Competition, Cherry Pit Spitting and Chalk Art Contests.

Main Street // Downtown Polson, MT

SaturdayJuly 26 9 AM-5 PM
Sunday July 27, 10 AM- 3 PM

FOODIE COMPETITION

Prepare to tantalize the judges' taste buds and showcase your culinary talents at the Flathead Cherry Festival's ultimate foodie competition. Whether you're a seasoned chef or an enthusiastic home cook, this is your chance to shine. Join us for a deliciously fun event where creativity meets flavor. There are four categories of competition: Pie, Sweet, Savoury, and Commercial.

1. All entries must be brought to the Anderson Stage by the Food Court at 1 pm on Sunday, July 27th ready to get served and plated on-site. We will provide plates, bowls, and utensils.
2. All entries must be made from scratch using an original recipe and feature local cherries in your entry.

JUDGING
A panel of 4 judges from within the community will be scoring based on the following categories: Originality & Creativity, Texture & Color, Flavor Profiles, and Presentation.

PRIZE
Winners in each category will receive a prize package worth over $100 from participating local businesses.

FOOD

The Cherry Festival boasts a delightful array of food vendors offering a diverse range of culinary delights that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. These vendors showcase the rich and diverse flavors of cherry-inspired cuisine, celebrating the star fruit of the festival.Explore the delights of your community's cherished food trucks while also uncovering new culinary treasures.

The festival's food vendors are committed to providing a gastronomic experience that captures the essence of cherries, making it a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts and cherry lovers alike.

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