This blog post explains why February is National Cherry Month and explores its origins, history, folklore, and modern celebrations across America — from George Washington’s cherry tree legend to Michigan’s cherry orchards and the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Celebrate National Cherry Month: From George Washington’s Tree to Michigan’s Orchards

Published: January 2015 | Updated: October 2025

Quick Summary Bullets

• Discover why February is officially National Cherry Month.

• Learn how George Washington’s “cherry tree” story became a symbol of honesty and folklore.

• Explore how America celebrates cherries today — from Michigan orchards to the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Introduction

Ever wondered why February — the coldest month in much of the country — is National Cherry Month? It’s not exactly harvest season, yet it’s a time when we celebrate everything about America’s favorite red fruit.

National Cherry Month was established to honor the cherry’s place in American folklore, agriculture, and culture. February was chosen because it coincides with Presidents’ Day — a holiday that celebrates both George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, two leaders whose birthdays fall this month. And of course, Washington’s legendary “cherry tree” story has become one of the most enduring symbols of honesty in American history.

Today, National Cherry Month isn’t just about folklore. It’s a reminder of the cherry’s deep roots in U.S. agriculture, from the orchards of Northern Michigan to the cherry blossoms that brighten Washington, D.C. each spring.

Traverse Bay Farms — located in the heart of Michigan’s cherry country — continues this legacy with its nationally award-winning cherry products and commitment to celebrating America’s cherry heritage.

Check out this infographic to learn little know facts about cherries, cherry juice concentrate and National Cherry Month.

(Related: What Is Tart Cherry Juice? Understanding Its Origins, Benefits, and Uses)

Nationally Award-Winning Traverse Bay Farms

Traverse Bay Farms has won 38+ national food awards for its gourmet products. Based in Northern Michigan, the company uses as much locally grown fruit as possible and remains dedicated to promoting America’s cherry-growing heritage.

Key Facts at a Glance

• February is National Cherry Month, coinciding with Presidents’ Day.

• George Washington’s “I cannot tell a lie” story is rooted in cherry tree folklore.

• Abraham Lincoln’s birthday also falls in February.

• The National Cherry Blossom Festival honors Japan’s 1912 gift of cherry trees.

• Michigan leads the nation in tart cherry production.

What Is National Cherry Month?

National Cherry Month was officially designated in the United States to celebrate the cherry’s agricultural and cultural significance. Though cherries aren’t harvested in February, the month was selected because of its strong symbolic ties to honesty, leadership, and American pride — values represented by both the fruit and our presidents.

The celebration encourages Americans to enjoy cherry-based foods, learn about cherry farming, and support local producers. It’s also a time to spotlight how cherries contribute to wellness — from their antioxidant content to their role in promoting healthy sleep and joint function.

George Washington and the “Cherry Tree” Legend

The tale of young George Washington admitting to chopping down his father’s cherry tree has been told for generations. According to folklore, when confronted by his father, Washington confessed:

“I cannot tell a lie, I chopped down the cherry tree.”

While historians agree this story was fictionalized by early biographer Mason Locke Weems, it became a cornerstone of Washington’s image — representing honesty, integrity, and moral leadership.

Because of this enduring tale, the cherry became forever linked to Washington’s legacy, and by extension, to February celebrations of his birthday and Presidents’ Day.

Presidents’ Day and America’s Cherry Connection

Presidents’ Day, celebrated on the third Monday of February, honors both George Washington and Abraham Lincoln — two of America’s most respected leaders. Lincoln, whose February 12 birthday falls just days before Washington’s, also symbolizes integrity and perseverance.

The blending of these two birthdays into one national holiday made February a natural choice for celebrating cherries — the fruit most associated with Washington’s legacy and symbolic of truth, resilience, and heritage.

During National Cherry Month, schools, communities, and businesses alike use cherries as a fun way to teach American history, promote healthy eating, and showcase local agriculture.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival

Each spring, millions visit Washington, D.C. for the National Cherry Blossom Festival — one of the country’s most picturesque events. Although the blossoms typically bloom in March or April, the festival’s roots trace back to February 1912, when Japan gifted 3,000 cherry trees to the United States as a gesture of friendship.

The festival now symbolizes international peace and cultural exchange, as well as the beauty and renewal that cherries represent. From parades and art exhibits to food festivals and concerts, the event celebrates both the cherry tree and the shared values of the two nations.

Michigan: The Heart of America’s Cherry Harvest

While Washington, D.C. may be home to the cherry blossoms, Northern Michigan is known as the Cherry Capital of the World. The region’s ideal climate — along the 45th Parallel with cool nights and warm days — provides the perfect growing conditions for Montmorency tart cherries.

Traverse Bay Farms and other local producers carry forward this tradition by crafting award-winning cherry products that celebrate both health and flavor. Whether it’s tart cherry juice concentrate, dried cherries, or fruit-based salsas, these products highlight how cherries connect our nation’s history with everyday wellness.

At-a-Glance Review

February’s National Cherry Month honors more than a fruit — it celebrates honesty, heritage, and American innovation. From Washington’s fabled cherry tree to Michigan’s thriving orchards, the cherry continues to symbolize truth, health, and friendship across generations.

Celebrate National Cherry Month

Ready to celebrate National Cherry Month? Traverse Bay Farms offers award-winning products tart cherry juice concentrate, dried cherries, salsa, jams, barbecue sauces, mustards and more, made using as much Michigan-grown fruit as possible. Enjoy the taste of tradition — straight from the heart of America’s cherry country.

FAQs 

Q: Why is February National Cherry Month?
A: February was chosen to align with Presidents’ Day and George Washington’s birthday — both linked to cherry folklore and American heritage.

Q: What is the story of George Washington and the cherry tree?
A: It’s a popular legend symbolizing honesty, where young Washington confessed to cutting down his father’s cherry tree.

Q: Where do most cherries in the U.S. come from?
A: Michigan produces over 70% of America’s tart cherries, thanks to its ideal growing climate near the Great Lakes.

Q: How is the National Cherry Blossom Festival connected to cherries?
A: The festival celebrates Japan’s 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry trees to Washington, D.C., symbolizing peace and friendship.

Q: How can I celebrate National Cherry Month?
A: Try baking cherry desserts, drinking tart cherry juice, or supporting Michigan cherry growers like Traverse Bay Farms.

People Also Ask

• Why do we celebrate cherries in February?

• What are the health benefits of cherries during National Cherry Month?

• How did Michigan become the Cherry Capital of the World?

• What makes tart cherries different from sweet cherries?

• What’s the connection between cherries and George Washington?

Learn More about National Cherry Month

From American folklore to modern agriculture, cherries have long held a special place in our culture. National Cherry Month is a time to remember how one small fruit came to represent big ideas — truth, friendship, and community.

Whether you’re enjoying a slice of cherry pie, sipping tart cherry juice, or simply admiring the blossoms, every cherry connects us to generations of farmers, families, and traditions.

Traverse Bay Farms continues to honor this heritage with its 38+ national food awards and commitment to using as much Michigan-grown fruit as possible. By celebrating National Cherry Month, you’re not just enjoying a seasonal tradition — you’re taking part in a story that began centuries ago and continues to thrive today.

Celebrate National Cherry Month

Want to celebrate National Cherry Month the delicious way? Traverse Bay Farms products are award winning cherry juice concentrates, dried cherries, and salsas, jam, barbecue sauces, mustard and more... — shipped to you from Northern Michigan. Visit TraverseBayFarms.com to learn more.