National Cherry Day

Celebrated on 07/16/2026

Quick Fact

National Cherry Day is celebrated on July 16th each year, coinciding with the peak of cherry harvest season in many regions. Did you know that the United States produces over 650 million pounds of tart cherries annually, with Michigan leading as the top producer?

Origins and Establishment of National Cherry Day

National Cherry Day was created in 2014 by the nonprofit organization Sweet Cherries Inc. to promote the consumption and appreciation of cherries. The day was chosen to fall in mid-July, when cherries are at their ripest and most abundant, encouraging people to enjoy fresh cherries and cherry-based products.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Since its inception, National Cherry Day has grown in popularity, with retailers, farmers' markets, and restaurants offering special deals and cherry-themed events. Social media campaigns using #NationalCherryDay help spread awareness, and many communities host cherry-picking outings, baking contests, and educational activities about cherry cultivation and health benefits.

Facts & General Observations

• The United States is the world's second-largest producer of cherries, after Turkey, with an annual production of about 650 million pounds of tart cherries and 400 million pounds of sweet cherries.
• Cherries are a natural source of melatonin, which can help regulate sleep patterns, and are rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins, which give them their deep red color.
• The famous cherry blossom festival in Washington, D.C., celebrates the gift of cherry trees from Japan in 1912, but National Cherry Day focuses on the fruit itself, not the blossoms.

Explore more celebrations, trivia, and quests on National Day Quest.