Welcome to The Dalles, where the vibrant colors of summer welcome you to the much-anticipated Cherry Festival in 2026. This annual celebration is a tribute to the bountiful cherry harvest that the region is renowned for. The Cherry Festival in The Dalles is not just an event; it’s a tradition that brings together locals and visitors alike to indulge in all things cherry-related. From cherry picking to delectable cherry-themed treats, this festival offers a sweet escape into the world of cherries. Join us as we delve into the festivities, flavors, and fun that await you at the Cherry Festival in The Dalles 2026!

Introduction: Discovering The Dalles Cherry Festival 2026
The The Dalles Cherry Festival 2026 is a highly anticipated event that celebrates the bountiful cherry harvest in The Dalles. This year’s festival promises to be bigger and better than ever, with a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
Exploring Cherry Delights
Visitors to the festival can indulge in a variety of cherry-inspired treats, from fresh cherry pies to cherry-infused beverages. The culinary delights on offer showcase the region’s rich cherry-growing heritage.
Exciting Entertainment
Aside from the delicious cherry-themed food and drinks, attendees can look forward to a diverse lineup of live music performances, fun games, and interactive activities perfect for families and friends to enjoy together.
History and Significance of The Cherry Festival
The Cherry Festival in The Dalles has a rich history dating back to its inception, attracting locals and tourists alike to celebrate the bountiful cherry harvest.
Origin of the Festival
The festival began as a way to honor the cherry orchards that thrive in The Dalles region, showcasing the abundance and quality of the local cherries.
Cultural Significance
The Cherry Festival is deeply rooted in the local community, symbolizing the town’s agricultural heritage and the importance of cherry farming to the region’s economy.
Each year, it brings together families and friends to enjoy cherry-themed events, live music, delicious food, and fun activities.
Event Schedule and Highlights for 2026
Experience the Cherry Festival in The Dalles 2026 with an array of exciting events and highlights throughout the celebration.
Cherry-Picking Excursions
Embark on guided cherry-picking excursions to handpick the freshest cherries right from the orchards in The Dalles.
Join local farmers in the bountiful harvest, creating cherished memories with your loved ones.
Cherry Culinary Delights
Indulge in a culinary adventure with cherry-infused delicacies ranging from pies to savory dishes.
- Savor the mouth-watering Cherry Cobbler at the Grand Tasting Event.
- Explore the Cherry Cooking Demos featuring renowned chefs showcasing their cherry-inspired recipes.
Activities and Attractions at The Festival
Experience a variety of exciting activities and attractions at the Cherry Festival in The Dalles 2026. From delicious cherry-themed treats to fun-filled entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Cherry Tasting Booths
Taste the freshest cherries at the cherry tasting booths scattered throughout the festival grounds. Indulge in the sweet flavors of locally grown cherries.
Live Music Performances
Listen to live musical performances from talented local artists while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the festival. Enjoy a mix of genres that will keep you entertained throughout the day.
Cherry Pie Baking Contest
Witness the excitement of the annual Cherry Pie Baking Contest where participants showcase their baking skills in creating the perfect cherry pie. Join the fun by participating or simply enjoy the delicious creations.
Culinary Delights and Cherry-themed Treats
Indulge in a plethora of culinary delights and cherry-themed treats at the Cherry Festival in The Dalles 2026. From delectable cherry pies to refreshing cherry lemonades, this festival offers a wide array of cherry-infused creations.
Cherry-inspired Dishes
Sample mouth-watering cherry-infused dishes, such as cherry-glazed ribs and cherry-stuffed crepes, showcasing the versatility of this beloved fruit. Don’t miss the chance to savor the unique flavors of cherry salsa paired with grilled meats.
Cherry-themed Desserts
Indulge your sweet tooth with cherry-themed desserts like cherry cheesecake, cherry almond tarts, and cherry chocolate cupcakes. These desserts perfectly encapsulate the essence of cherries in every bite, leaving you craving for more.
- Savor the rich flavors of cherry sorbet accompanied by a sprinkle of fresh cherries.
- Experience the perfect blend of sweet and tangy with cherry cobbler topped with vanilla ice cream.
- Try traditional cherry clafoutis for a taste of classic cherry-based desserts.
Entertainment and Performances to Look Forward To
Immerse yourself in the vibrant and lively entertainment lineup at the Cherry Festival in The Dalles 2026. From live music to dazzling performances, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Live Music Acts
Get ready to groove to the beats of talented musicians as they take the stage to serenade festival-goers with melodious tunes. Feel the rhythm and let the music transport you to a world of joy and celebration!
Cultural Performances
Experience the rich cultural heritage of The Dalles through captivating dance performances and traditional showcases. Witness the beauty and grace of various cultural art forms that will leave you enchanted.
- Traditional dance rituals
- Folk music performances
- Artisan demonstrations
Community Involvement and Local Artisans
One of the highlights of the Cherry Festival in The Dalles 2026 is the strong emphasis on community involvement and support for local artisans. The festival provides a platform for talented artisans to showcase their work and connect with a wider audience.
Local Artisan Market
Visitors can explore the vibrant Local Artisan Market featuring handmade products ranging from cherry-themed crafts to artisanal foods. This market not only supports local businesses but also allows attendees to take home unique souvenirs from the festival.
Don’t miss the opportunity to discover exquisite handcrafted items that truly capture the essence of The Dalles community in 2026.
Community Workshops
Additionally, the Cherry Festival offers a series of community workshops where attendees can engage in interactive sessions with local artisans. These workshops provide a hands-on experience, allowing participants to learn about traditional craftsmanship and techniques.
- Cherry-themed pottery making
- Artisanal jam and preserves classes
- Woodworking demonstrations
Travel Tips and Accommodations in The Dalles
When visiting The Dalles for the 2026 Cherry Festival, it’s essential to plan your travel and accommodations in advance to fully enjoy the event.
Choosing Accommodations
Consider booking a hotel near the festival grounds to have easy access to the event. Some popular options include The Dalles Inn and Cousins Country Inn, known for their comfort and convenient locations.
Travel Tips
Plan your transportation to and from The Dalles in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles. If you’re driving, be prepared for heavy traffic during the festival days, and consider carpooling to ease parking congestion.
- Keep an eye on the festival schedule to make the most of your visit
- Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and a hat for the sunny outdoor activities
- Remember to taste the delicious cherry treats and shop for local souvenirs
How to Make the Most of Your Cherry Festival Experience
Attending the Cherry Festival in The Dalles 2026 is an experience like no other. To ensure you make the most of this sweet celebration, follow these tips:
Plan Ahead
Before the festival begins, take some time to plan your visit. Check the event schedule for performances, tastings, and activities to ensure you don’t miss out on anything.
Make a checklist of must-see attractions to organize your day effectively.
Sample Cherry Delicacies
Indulge in a wide array of cherry-themed treats, from cherry pies to cherry jams. Be sure to try the local cherry wines and ciders for a unique tasting experience.
- Taste different cherry varieties grown in The Dalles
- Don’t miss out on the cherry dessert competition
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Cherry Festival in The Dalles?
- The Cherry Festival in The Dalles is an annual event celebrating cherry harvest in The Dalles, Oregon.
- When is the Cherry Festival in The Dalles happening in 2026?
- The Cherry Festival in The Dalles is scheduled to take place in 2026. The exact dates will be announced closer to the event.
- What can visitors expect at the Cherry Festival in The Dalles?
- Visitors can expect a variety of events and activities such as cherry tastings, live music, parades, arts and crafts, food vendors, and much more.
- Is there an admission fee for the Cherry Festival?
- Admission fees may vary depending on the specific events and activities within the Cherry Festival. Some events may be free, while others may require tickets or passes.
- Are there accommodations available for visitors during the Cherry Festival?
- Yes, there are various accommodation options available in The Dalles for visitors attending the Cherry Festival. It is recommended to book accommodations in advance due to high demand during the festival.
Final Thoughts: Experience the Cherry Festival in The Dalles 2026
As we conclude this journey through the vibrant and flavorful world of the Cherry Festival in The Dalles 2026, it’s clear that this annual event is a sweet celebration not to be missed. From the bustling cherry orchards to the delightful cherry-themed activities and treats, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you’re a devoted cherry enthusiast or simply looking to experience something new and exciting, the festival offers a unique opportunity to savor the best of what the region has to offer. So mark your calendars, gather your loved ones, and get ready to indulge in the sweetness of the Cherry Festival in The Dalles 2026!