The Flathead Cherry Festival has become a highlight for those who relish the area’s beauty, and its popularity is rising. We are proud of the positive impact noticed by the community last year, and we look forward to further elevating the festival experience, all while enjoying some delicious fresh cherry pie! As stewards of this beloved event, we are injecting new energy and innovative ideas, promising an even more exciting experience for attendees. Our commitment to enhancing the festival’s quality is evident as we curate various high-caliber vendors. The two-day extravaganza promises a delightful celebration, with the vibrant atmosphere around Flathead Lake adding to the festivities.

Polson, MT  // July 27-28  // Main Street

handMADE Montana cordially invites you to submit your application for participation in the 25th annual Flathead Cherry Festival. Join us during the last weekend of July as we commemorate the cherry harvest, showcasing the talents of artists, delectable food offerings, local businesses, and fostering a sense of community. Your presence will contribute to the vibrancy of this cherished event.

The Flathead Cherry Festival is presented by HandMADE Montana— a professional organization for art & handcrafted goods. We organize events, provide resources to artists, and encourage growth and support in our community efforts.

APPLYING

Please be mindful that this is a juried show, and as you complete your application, consider that the jury will be assessing the submissions for exceptional quality from artisans, makers, and creatives. It is imperative that items are exclusively crafted and designed by the artist, avoiding mass production. Our showcase embraces both local and regional artists, with all applications given thoughtful consideration during the jurying process. All handcrafted & artists booth will be located on Mains Street of the event unless otherwise requested. Although not required, cherry themed products are highly encouraged!

HOW TO APPLY

1. Fill out the online application

2. Upload images (5 product shots, 1-3 process images (how you make the items) , and one booth (a set-up of what your goods look like))

3. Pay the application fee*

*The application fee is waived until March 1st to encourage early applications after which there is a non-refundable $10 application fee to have your work juried for the Flathead Cherry Festival. All pictures MUST be included with your application to be considered. If you are a non-profit looking to have a booth, we have a separate application available.

IMPORTANT DATES

January  15: Accepting applications

April  15: Deadline for submissions

May 1: Accepted and declined artisans notified by email

May 31:  Artists booth fees due

BOOTH FEES // SET-UP // EVENT HOURS

• 10’x10’   $250   
• 20’x10’   $400 
• 30’x10’   $575
• 40'x10' $750

Corner upgrades are available for an additional $25 and are limited. If you are interested, please indicate so on your application. Booth sizes are listed in width x depth. Chairs, tables, and electricity are not provided nor available. 

While booth fees have seen a slight increase from previous years, we want to highlight that this adjustment is accompanied by a substantial addition of benefits provided by handMADE Montana. Your investment now not only supports your participation but also unlocks a range of significant advantages that enhance your overall experience and visibility at our events. We believe these added benefits contribute to the value and success of your presence with handMADE Montana.

SET-UP: Friday July 26 //  6 PM - 9 PM Saturday July 27 // 6 AM - 9 AM

Streets will remain closed at night with security.

SHOW HOURS // SAT July 27  9 AM - 5 PM // SUN July 28 10 AM- 3PM

All vendors are required to participate on both days of the event and must not dismantle their booths prematurely without obtaining prior permission. Ending early without authorization will have implications for future participation opportunities. Your adherence to this policy ensures a positive experience for all participants and contributes to the overall success of our events.

TAKE DOWN //  SUN 3 PM- 8 PM 

ARTIST BENEFITS 

Our shows stand out as the highlight of the season for many, and we go the extra mile to promote all our artists extensively on our website and social media platforms. Our customers appreciate the opportunity to pre-shop the artists, strategically planning their shopping day. This unique feature sets us apart from other handmade markets, providing an added benefit that enhances the overall experience for both artists and attendees.

INCLUDED

We are adding significant benefits to the vendors participating in this year's Flathead Cherry Festival.

• A well-organized event that attracts over 8,000 customers eager to buy handcrafted products and meet you, the artist!
• *NEW* Product image, business name, and links on our website 
• *NEW* A landing page with more detailed information about your business, including links to a website, Facebook, and Instagram. EXAMPLE PAGE
• Promotional event graphics you can use on your Instagram account, Facebook page, or website   
• *NEW* Name tag and other great swag

ADDITIONAL PROMOTIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR ARTISTS

• Featured artist—Instagram & Facebook mentions, upgraded landing page, premium booth placement
• Raffle—provide an item and a small fee to be included and receive Instagram & Facebook mentions and links to your website, FB, or Instagram account.  
   

PROMOTION

All of our events are very well attended, and we work hard to bring in a variety of customers. In addition to our website, Facebook, and Instagram pages, we advertise our events well in advance using these methods:    

• Printed media —5000 rack cards, 500 posters, 5,000 mini cards
• Advertisements in local papers and magazines
• Radio spots
• Social Media—Facebook & Instagram Ads
• Calendar Listings—newspaper, online, and magazines

Accommodations

We are committed to collaborating with the City of Polson to facilitate dry camping exclusively for vendors. Upon receiving your acceptance email, you will receive detailed instructions on how to reserve a camping spot. Additionally, for local vendors with available space, we encourage the option of offering homestays to fellow participants. 

The Flathead Cherry Festival has become a highlight for those who relish the area’s beauty, and its popularity is rising. We are proud of the positive impact noticed by the community last year, and we look forward to further elevating the festival experience, all while enjoying some delicious fresh cherry pie! As stewards of this beloved event, we are injecting new energy and innovative ideas, promising an even more exciting experience for attendees. Our commitment to enhancing the festival’s quality is evident as we curate various high-caliber vendors. The two-day extravaganza promises a delightful celebration, with the vibrant atmosphere around Flathead Lake adding to the festivities.

Polson, MT  // July 27-28  // Main Street

handMADE Montana cordially invites you to submit your application for participation as a commercial busiiness  in the 25th annual Flathead Cherry Festival. Join us during the last weekend of July as we commemorate the cherry harvest, showcasing the talents of artists, delectable food offerings, local businesses, and fostering a sense of community. Your presence will contribute to the vibrancy of this cherished event.

The Flathead Cherry Festival is presented by HandMADE Montana— a professional organization for art & handcrafted goods. We organize events, provide resources to artists, and encourage growth and support in our community efforts.

APPLYING

Please be mindful that this is a juried show, and as you complete your application, consider that the jury will be assessing the submissions for the best fit for the event giving priority to local businesses. Commercial booths are designed for businesses selling products they do not make. There are other applications if you are an artist, food vendor, or non-profit. Although not required, cherry themed products are highly encouraged! All commercial booths will be located on 4th Ave off of Main Street.
 

HOW TO APPLY

1. Fill out the online application

2. Upload images ( up to 5 product shots and one booth (a set-up of what your goods look like)

3. Pay the application fee*

*The application fee is waived until March 1st to encourage early applications after which there is a non-refundable $10 application fee to have your work juried for the Flathead Cherry Festival. All pictures MUST be included with your application to be considered. If you are a non-profit looking to have a booth, we have a separate application available.

IMPORTANT DATES

January  15: Accepting applications

April  15: Deadline for submissions

May 1: Accepted and declined artisans notified by email

May 31:  Artists booth fees due

BOOTH FEES // SET-UP // EVENT HOURS

• 10’x10’   $250   
• 20’x10’   $400 
• 30’x10’   $575
• 40'x10' $750

Corner upgrades are available for an additional $25 and are limited. If you are interested, please indicate so on your application. Booth sizes are listed in width x depth. Chairs, tables, and electricity are not provided nor available. Although not required, we highly recommend offering cherry-themed products. The largest booth may be configured to a 20'x20' booth.

While booth fees have seen a slight increase from previous years, we want to highlight that this adjustment is accompanied by a substantial addition of benefits provided by handMADE Montana. Your investment now supports your participation and unlocks a range of significant advantages that enhance your overall experience and visibility at our events. We believe these added benefits contribute to the value and success of your presence with handMADE Montana.

SET-UP: Friday July 26 //  6 PM - 9 PM Saturday July 27 // 6 AM - 9 AM

Streets will remain closed at night with security.

SHOW HOURS // SAT July 27,9 AM - 5 PM // SUN July 28, 10 AM- 3 PM

All vendors are required to participate on both days of the event and must not dismantle their booths prematurely without obtaining prior permission. Ending early without authorization will have implications for future participation opportunities. Your adherence to this policy ensures a positive experience for all participants and contributes to the overall success of our events.

TAKE DOWN //  SUN 3 PM- 8 PM 

VENDOR BENEFITS 

Our shows stand out as the season's highlight for many, and we go the extra mile to promote all our artists extensively on our website and social media platforms. Our customers appreciate the opportunity to pre-shop the vendors, strategically planning their shopping day. This unique feature sets us apart from other handmade markets, providing an added benefit that enhances the overall experience for both artists and attendees.

INCLUDED

We are adding significant benefits to the vendors participating in this year's Flathead Cherry Festival.

• A well-organized event that attracts over 8,000 customers eager to buy handcrafted products and meet you, the artist!
• *NEW* Product image, business name, and links on our website 
• *NEW* A landing page with more detailed information about your business, including links to a website, Facebook, and Instagram. EXAMPLE PAGE
• Promotional event graphics you can use on your Instagram account, Facebook page, or website   
• *NEW* Name tag and other great swag
   

PROMOTION

All of our events are very well attended, and we work hard to bring in various customers. In addition to our website, Facebook, and Instagram pages, we advertise our events well in advance using these methods:    

• Printed media —5000 rack cards, 500 posters, 5,000 mini cards
• Advertisements in local papers and magazines
• Radio spots
• Social Media—Facebook & Instagram Ads
• Calendar Listings—newspaper, online, and magazines

Accommodations

We are committed to collaborating with the City of Polson to facilitate dry camping exclusively for vendors. Upon receiving your acceptance email, you will receive detailed instructions on how to reserve a camping spot. Additionally, for local vendors with available space, we encourage the option of offering homestays to fellow participants. 

The Flathead Cherry Festival has become a highlight for those who relish the area’s beauty, and its popularity is rising. We are proud of the positive impact noticed by the community last year, and we look forward to further elevating the festival experience, all while enjoying some delicious fresh cherry pie! As stewards of this beloved event, we are injecting new energy and innovative ideas, promising an even more exciting experience for attendees. Our commitment to enhancing the festival’s quality is evident as we curate various high-caliber vendors. The two-day extravaganza promises a delightful celebration, with the vibrant atmosphere around Flathead Lake adding to the festivities.

Polson, MT  // July 27-28  // Main Street

handMADE Montana cordially invites you to submit your application for participation as a non-profit, school group, or club  in the 25th annual Flathead Cherry Festival. Join us during the last weekend of July as we commemorate the cherry harvest, showcasing the talents of artists, delectable food offerings, local businesses, and fostering a sense of community. Your presence will contribute to the vibrancy of this cherished event.

The Flathead Cherry Festival is presented by HandMADE Montana— a professional organization for art & handcrafted goods. We organize events, provide resources to artists, and encourage growth and support in our community efforts.

APPLYING

This application is for commercial businesses that don't make the products they are selling. We have separate applications if you are an artist, non profit, or food vendor. We will be looking into the products or services that you are selling to make sure they are a good fit for the Flathead Cherry Festival event. All commercial booths are located on 4th Ave off of Main Street. Preference will be given to local businesses. 

HOW TO APPLY

1. Fill out the online application

2. Upload images ( up to 5 product shots and one booth (a set-up of what your goods look like)

3. Pay the application fee*

*The application fee is waived until March 1st to encourage early applications after which there is a non-refundable $10 application fee to have your work juried for the Flathead Cherry Festival. All pictures MUST be included with your application to be considered. If you are a non-profit looking to have a booth, we have a separate application available.

IMPORTANT DATES

January  15: Accepting applications

April  15: Deadline for submissions

May 1: Accepted and declined artisans notified by email

May 31:  Artists booth fees due

BOOTH FEES // SET-UP // EVENT HOURS

• 10’x10’   $250   Non-profit $125 // School Group or Club: $75
• 20’x10’   $400  Non-profit $200 // School Group or Club: $100

 Booth sizes are listed in width x depth. Chairs, tables, and electricity are not provided nor available.   All non-profit and school group booths will be located on 4th Ave. The reduced booth rate for registered non-profits  (501(c)3) is to help local organizations raise funds and bring awareness to their missions. Businesses donating a portion of sales to a non-profit do not qualify and should pay for a full-priced booth.

While booth fees have seen a slight increase from previous years, we want to highlight that this adjustment is accompanied by a substantial addition of benefits provided by handMADE Montana. Your investment now not only supports your participation but also unlocks a range of significant advantages that enhance your overall experience and visibility at our events. We believe these added benefits contribute to the value and success of your presence with handMADE Montana.

SET-UP: Friday July 26 //  6 PM - 9 PM Saturday July 27 // 6 AM - 9 AM

Streets will remain closed at night with security.

SHOW HOURS // SAT July 27  9 AM - 5 PM // SUN July 28 10 AM- 3PM

All vendors are required to participate on both days of the event and must not dismantle their booths prematurely without obtaining prior permission. Ending early without authorization will have implications for future participation opportunities. Your adherence to this policy ensures a positive experience for all participants and contributes to the overall success of our events.

TAKE DOWN //  SUN 3 PM- 8 PM 

VENDOR BENEFITS 

Our shows stand out as the highlight of the season for many, and we go the extra mile to promote all our artists extensively on our website and social media platforms. Our customers appreciate the opportunity to pre-shop the vendors, strategically planning their shopping day. This unique feature sets us apart from other handmade markets, providing an added benefit that enhances the overall experience for both artists and attendees.

INCLUDED

We are adding significant benefits to the vendors participating in this year's Flathead Cherry Festival.

• A well-organized event that attracts over 8,000 customers eager to buy handcrafted products and meet you, the artist!
• *NEW* Product image, business name, and links on our website 
• *NEW* A landing page with more detailed information about your business, including links to a website, Facebook, and Instagram. EXAMPLE PAGE
• Promotional event graphics you can use on your Instagram account, Facebook page, or website   
• *NEW* Name tag and other great swag
   

PROMOTION

All of our events are very well attended, and we work hard to bring in a variety of customers. In addition to our website, Facebook, and Instagram pages, we advertise our events well in advance using these methods:    

• Printed media —5000 rack cards, 500 posters, 5,000 mini cards
• Advertisements in local papers and magazines
• Radio spots
• Social Media—Facebook & Instagram Ads
• Calendar Listings—newspaper, online, and magazines

   The Flathead Cherry Festival has become a highlight for those who relish the area’s beauty, and its popularity is rising. We are proud of the positive impact noticed by the community last year, and we look forward to further elevating the festival experience, all while enjoying some delicious fresh cherry pie! As stewards of this beloved event, we are injecting new energy and innovative ideas, promising an even more exciting experience for attendees. Our commitment to enhancing the festival’s quality is evident as we curate various high-caliber vendors. The two-day extravaganza promises a delightful celebration, with the vibrant atmosphere around Flathead Lake adding to the festivities.

Polson, MT  // July 27-28  // Main Street

handMADE Montana cordially invites you to submit your application for participation as a food vendor in the 25th annual Flathead Cherry Festival. Join us during the last weekend of July as we commemorate the cherry harvest, showcasing the talents of artists, delectable food offerings, local businesses, and fostering a sense of community. Your presence will contribute to the vibrancy of this cherished event.

The Flathead Cherry Festival is presented by HandMADE Montana— a professional organization for art & handcrafted goods. We organize events, provide resources to artists, and encourage growth and support in our community efforts.

APPLYING

This application is for those selling food items in one of three categories:

• Off-Site Food (baked goods, jams & jellies, sauces, honey, etc)
• On-Site (food truck, beverages, etc)
• Cherry orchard

You must submit a copy of your food license, temporary food service, or cottage food permit after you have been accepted and uploaded with your contract.  Information and how to apply can be found online. You can contact Anna Baxter at Lake County Environmental Health with any questions.

Cherries sold at the Flathead Cherry Festival must be commercially acceptable, quality fruit from orchards within the legally established Pest Control District located in Lake and Flathead Counties.  To protect Flathead cherries' reputation and commercial value, fruit must be free of Western cherry fruit fly (WCFF) infestation. Cherry vendors may be asked to provide written evidence of steps taken to control an infestation of the WCFF in their orchards.

HOW TO APPLY

1. Fill out the online application

2. Upload images ( up to 5 product shots and one booth (a set-up of what your goods look like)

3. Pay the application fee*

*The application fee is waived until March 1st to encourage early applications after which there is a non-refundable $10 application fee to have your work juried for the Flathead Cherry Festival. All pictures MUST be included with your application to be considered. If you are a non-profit looking to have a booth, we have a separate application available.

IMPORTANT DATES

January  15: Accepting applications

April  15: Deadline for submissions

May 1: Accepted and declined artisans notified by email

May 31:  Artists booth fees due

BOOTH FEES // SET-UP // EVENT HOURS

• 10’x10’   $250   Cherry Orchard: $150
• 20’x10’  $400   Cherry Orchard $300
• 30’x10’  (or food truck)  $575 

Corner upgrades are available for an additional $25 and are limited. If you are interested, please indicate so on your application. Booth sizes are listed in width x depth. Chairs, tables, and electricity are not provided nor available. Although not required, we highly recommend offering cherry-themed products. 

We will have two food courts again this year on either end of 3rd Avenue to help with better traffic flow. If you are bringing a generator, you must use an inverter generator. The Honda Quiet Series is a good example of one. All pop-up tents MUST BE PROPERLY WEIGHTED DOWN. You will be allowed to have one additional tent per food truck or 10x10 for customers waiting under to stay out of the sun. 

While booth fees have seen a slight increase from previous years, we want to highlight that this adjustment is accompanied by a substantial addition of benefits provided by handMADE Montana. Your investment now supports your participation and unlocks a range of significant advantages that enhance your overall experience and visibility at our events. We believe these added benefits contribute to the value and success of your presence with handMADE Montana.

 SET-UP: Friday July 26 //  6 PM - 9 PM Saturday July 27 // 6 AM - 9 AM

Streets will remain closed at night with security.

SHOW HOURS // SAT July 27  9 AM - 5 PM // SUN July 28 10 AM- 3PM

All vendors are required to participate on both days of the event and must not dismantle their booths prematurely without obtaining prior permission. Ending early without authorization will have implications for future participation opportunities. Your adherence to this policy ensures a positive experience for all participants and contributes to the overall success of our events.

TAKE DOWN //  SUN 3 PM- 8 PM 

VENDOR BENEFITS 

Our shows stand out as the highlight of the season for many, and we go the extra mile to promote all our artists extensively on our website and social media platforms. Our customers appreciate the opportunity to pre-shop the vendors, strategically planning their shopping day. This unique feature sets us apart from other handmade markets, providing an added benefit that enhances the overall experience for both artists and attendees.

INCLUDED

We are adding significant benefits to the vendors participating in this year's Flathead Cherry Festival.

• A well-organized event that attracts over 8,000 customers eager to buy handcrafted products and meet you, the artist!
• *NEW* Product image, business name, and links on our website 
• *NEW* A landing page with more detailed information about your business, including links to a website, Facebook, and Instagram. EXAMPLE PAGE
• Promotional event graphics you can use on your Instagram account, Facebook page, or website   
• *NEW* Name tag and other great swag  

PROMOTION

All of our events are very well attended, and we work hard to bring in a variety of customers. In addition to our website, Facebook, and Instagram pages, we advertise our events well in advance using these methods:    

• Printed media —5000 rack cards, 500 posters, 5,000 mini cards
• Advertisements in local papers and magazines
• Radio spots
• Social Media—Facebook & Instagram Ads
• Calendar Listings—newspaper, online, and magazines

Accommodations

We are committed to collaborating with the City of Polson to facilitate dry camping exclusively for vendors. Upon receiving your acceptance email, you will receive detailed instructions on how to reserve a camping spot. Additionally, for local vendors with available space, we encourage the option of offering homestays to fellow participants.