National Cherry Month is a February celebration dedicated to honoring cherries, their rich history, cultural significance, and their role in American heritage. From their health benefits to their culinary versatility, cherries are cherished as a symbol of friendship, honesty, and joy.
Quick Facts
- When is it? February
- Tagged as: Cultural, Agricultural, Historical
- What’s the hashtag? #NationalCherryMonth
- When was it founded? Early 20th century
- Who founded it? Inspired by the George Washington cherry tree legend and Japan’s 1912 gift of cherry trees to the U.S.
History of National Cherry Month
The roots of National Cherry Month are intertwined with American history and folklore. The famous (though mythical) story of young George Washington admitting to cutting down a cherry tree symbolizes honesty and leadership. Additionally, in 1912, Japan gifted 3,000 cherry trees to the U.S. as a gesture of friendship, planting the seeds for the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C.
Cherries also have a long agricultural history in the U.S., with commercial production beginning in Michigan in the 19th century. Today, Michigan remains the leading producer of tart cherries.
Timeline
- 1600s: Cherries arrive in America with early settlers.
- 1852: Peter Dougherty plants cherry trees in Michigan.
- 1912: Japan gifts cherry trees to the U.S., fostering international goodwill.
- 1925: The first “Blessing of the Blossoms Festival” is held in Traverse City, Michigan.
- 1931: The event is renamed the National Cherry Festival.
Upcoming Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | February 1–29 | Saturday–Friday |
| 2026 | February 1–28 | Sunday–Saturday |
| 2027 | February 1–28 | Monday–Sunday |
| 2028 | February 1–29 | Tuesday–Monday |
| 2029 | February 1–28 | Thursday–Wednesday |
| 2030 | February 1–28 | Friday–Thursday |
Observed
National Cherry Month is celebrated through various activities such as baking cherry pies, attending cherry festivals, and learning about cherries’ historical significance. Traverse City, Michigan—the “Cherry Capital of the World”—hosts an annual National Cherry Festival in July.
Fun Facts About Cherries
- The world’s largest cherry pie weighed approximately 39.6 pounds!
- Helicopters are used in Australia to dry cherry orchards after rain to prevent fruit cracking.
- Traverse City hosts an international cherry pit-spitting competition with record distances over 93 feet!
Quiz
- What state produces most of America’s tart cherries? (Answer: Michigan)
- Which U.S. president is famously associated with a cherry tree myth? (Answer: George Washington)
- What year did Japan gift cherry trees to the U.S.? (Answer: 1912)
FAQs
Q: Why is February chosen for National Cherry Month?
A: February aligns with George Washington’s birthday and honors his association with cherries while celebrating their cultural significance.
Q: What are some health benefits of cherries?
A: Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and A, potassium, and fiber, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.
Q: Where can I attend a major cherry festival?
A: Traverse City, Michigan hosts the National Cherry Festival every July.
Importance of National Cherry Month
National Cherry Month highlights cherries’ cultural heritage, agricultural importance, and health benefits while celebrating their role in fostering international friendship (e.g., Japan’s gift of cherry trees). It’s also a time to indulge in this versatile fruit through recipes and festivities.
Related
- National Cherry Blossom Festival (March)
- National Pie Day (January)
- National Cherry Turnover Day (August)