begins with your arrival and orientation to the festival. Start your morning by checking into your downtown Traverse City hotel, conveniently located within walking distance of all festival activities. Enjoy a welcome breakfast featuring cherry pancakes at a local cafe before getting familiar with the festival grounds and picking up your maps and schedules. The afternoon kicks off with the Grand Opening Ceremonies, marking the official start of this beloved celebration. Browse the Cherry Market where local vendors sell everything from cherry products to handcrafted souvenirs, then visit Kids Cherry Town for family-friendly activities including face painting and obstacle courses. Sample cherry-themed foods from festival food trucks for a late lunch that will introduce your taste buds to the incredible variety of cherry cuisine. As evening approaches, enjoy live music performances by featured artists on the Main Stage, experience the excitement of carnival rides and midway attractions, and cap off your first day with dinner at a local restaurant specializing in cherry-infused cuisine.