TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) - The National Cherry Festival is getting underway in Traverse City, with the opening weekend featuring a return appearance by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and several events linked to the region's growing reputation as a foodie haven.
On Saturday, the headliner is a "Blues, Brews and BBQ" program featuring beers and ciders from Michigan microbreweries and a wide selection of barbecues, with some recipes featuring cherries.
A "Cherries D'Vine" event Sunday at Northwestern Michigan College's Hagerty Center will offer local wines and foods prepared by Michigan chefs.
Both programs will be in prime viewing areas for the Blue Angels air shows.
The festival runs from Saturday through July 12. Also scheduled are concerts, races, parades and fireworks. Visitors can tour a nearby cherry orchard and research station.
---
Online: http://www.cherryfestival.org
