70th annual National Cherry Festival celebrated in Hilltops

The National Cherry Festival celebrated its Jubilee year in the Hilltops region over the weekend.

Friday saw the official opening of the Festival, followed by a selection of live entertainment, including Young’s own Harry Cleverdon. The night was capped off by a dazzling fireworks display.

Saturday kicked off with the Young and Region Farmer’s Markets showcasing the best the region has to offer, followed by a variety of entertainment through out the day.

The Wilders Bakery Cherry Pie Eating Championships are a popular event and took place at Anderson Park on Saturday afternoon, before the Street Parade.

The National Cherry Festival Street Parade rolled down Boorowa Street from 4pm, featuring decorated floats to the theme of ‘cherries’.

Following the Street Parade was the Cherry Queen/Cherry King Coronation Ceremony. The ceremony is a culmination of all the hard work the entrants have done in the months in the lead up to the Festival. This year, David Munnerly was named Cherry King, the first Cherry King in several years. David’s charity was Hilltops Suicide Prevention Network Inc. He held several fundraising events, including a morning tea, raffles and concerts. Brianah Griffin was named Charity Queen. Brianah’s charity was the Lions Club of Young with funds being distributed to the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association NSW. Brianah held several fundraising events for her chosen charity, including the Cherry Chase: Chase The Colour fun run event, a bowls night and raffles.

Sunday began with the ever popular Donges IGA Big Breakfast and Handmade and Home Grown Produce and Craft Market. The Valley Fresh Pip Spit Competition was well attended as usual and there were Hilltops wine tastings available at the Regional Cellar Door at the Visitor Information Centre.

The 71st annual National Cherry Festival will be held on the 4th to the 6th of December, 2020.

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• National Cherry Festival