FLATHEAD CHERRY FESTIVAL 

Polson, MT // July 26-27 // Main Street

 The Flathead Cherry Festival has become a cornerstone event for those who appreciate the stunning beauty of the Flathead Valley. Its growing popularity reflects the community’s enthusiasm and support, and we are proud of its continued positive impact. From indulging in a slice of delicious cherry pie to exploring a curated selection of top-tier vendors, the two-day celebration will be a vibrant showcase of art, food, and community spirit set against the picturesque backdrop of Flathead Lake.

 HandMADE Montana invites you to submit your application for this milestone event. Held on the last weekend of July, the festival celebrates the cherry harvest while spotlighting talented artists, delectable food, local businesses, and the sense of connection that makes our community thrive. 

 Presented by HandMADE Montana—a professional organization dedicated to supporting art and handcrafted goods—the Flathead Cherry Festival exemplifies our commitment to fostering growth, providing resources for artists, and enriching our community through vibrant events.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Please note that the Flathead Cherry Festival is a juried show, ensuring a curated selection of exceptional quality from artisans, makers, and creatives. As you complete your application, remember that the jury will evaluate submissions based on craftsmanship, originality, and the unique artistry of each piece.

To maintain the event's integrity, all items showcased must be exclusively crafted and designed by the artist—mass-produced goods will not be accepted. The festival proudly highlights the work of both local and regional artists, and each application will receive thoughtful consideration during the jurying process.

All handcrafted and artist booths will be prominently located on Main Street during the event unless an alternative location is requested. While not mandatory, cherry-themed products are highly encouraged, adding to the festive atmosphere and celebration of the cherry harvest.

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. 

There is a non-refundable $10 application fee to have your work juried for the MADE fair. All pictures MUST be included with your application to be considered. If you are a non-profit looking for 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 15: Booth fees due

BOOTH FEES // SET-UP // EVENT HOURS

• 10’ x 10’   $250
• 20 ’x 10’   $425
• 30 ’x 10’   $600
• 40 ’x 10’   $775

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 or available. 

While booth fees have slightly increased from previous years, we want to highlight that a substantial addition of handMADE Montana benefits accompanies this adjustment. 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 25 //  5 PM - 9 PM  Saturday July 26 // 6 AM - 9 AM

Streets will remain closed at night with security.

SHOW HOURS // SAT July 26,9 AM - 5 PM // SUN July 27, 10 AM- 3 PM

All vendors must 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 

For many, our shows are the season's highlight, and we promote our artists extensively on our website and social media. Our customers love to pre-shop and plan their day, which is an extra benefit compared to other handmade markets. This is just one of the many things that sets us apart!

As an artist at our event, you’ll enjoy:

• Exposure to over 8,000 customers eager to buy handcrafted products and meet you, the artist
• Product image, business name, and links featured on our website
• A dedicated landing page with detailed information about your business, including links to your website, Facebook, and Instagram
• Promotional event graphics you can share on your Instagram, Facebook, or website
• A listing on a printed and digital floor plan for easy customer navigation
• A name tag and other great swag
• Additional promotional opportunities via featured artists and raffles.

PROMOTION   Our events consistently draw large crowds, and we put a lot of effort into attracting diverse customers. In addition to promoting through our website, Facebook, and Instagram, we use the following methods to advertise well in advance:

• Printed media: 5,000 rack cards, 500 posters, and 5,000 mini cards
• Advertisements in local newspapers and magazines
• Radio spots
• Glacier Country Tourism partner advertising
• Social media ads on Facebook and Instagram
• Calendar listings in newspapers, online, and magazines
• Digital and printed floor plan maps to help guide customers to your booth

We ensure our events are widely promoted to maximize visibility and foot traffic for our artists!

ACCOMMODATIONS

We are committed to organizing local options 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 offering homestays to fellow participants. 

Flathead Cherry Festival 

Polson, MT // July 26-27 // Main Street 

The Flathead Cherry Festival has become a cornerstone event for those who appreciate the stunning beauty of the Flathead Valley. Its growing popularity reflects the community’s enthusiasm and support, and we are proud of its continued positive impact. From indulging in a slice of delicious cherry pie to exploring a curated selection of top-tier vendors, the two-day celebration will be a vibrant showcase of art, food, and community spirit set against the picturesque backdrop of Flathead Lake.

  HandMADE Montana invites you to submit your application for this milestone event. Held on the last weekend of July, the festival celebrates the cherry harvest while spotlighting talented artists, delectable food, local businesses, and the sense of connection that makes our community thrive. 

  Presented by HandMADE Montana—a professional organization dedicated to supporting art and handcrafted goods—the Flathead Cherry Festival exemplifies our commitment to fostering growth, providing resources for artists, and enriching our community through vibrant events.

APPLICATION PROCESS

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, prioritizing local businesses. Commercial booths are designed for companies 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! Commercial booths will be located on  3rd and 4th Ave, and not on Main Street.
 

HOW TO APPLY

1. Fill out the online application.
2. Upload images (5 product shots and one booth (a set-up of what your goods look like)
3. Pay the application fee. 

To have your work juried for the MADE fair, you must pay a nonrefundable $10 application fee. To be considered, all pictures must be included with your application. We have a separate application for non-profits looking for booths.
 

IMPORTANT DATES

• January  15: Accepting applications
• April 15: Deadline for submissions
• May 1: Accepted and declined artisans notified by email
• May 15: Booth fees due

BOOTH FEES // SET-UP // EVENT HOURS

• 10’ x 10’   $250
• 20 ’x 10’   $425
• 30 ’x 10’   $600
• 40 ’x 10’   $775

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 or available.  The largest booth may be configured to a 20'x20' booth.

While booth fees have slightly increased from previous years, we want to highlight that a substantial addition of handMADE Montana benefits accompanies this adjustment. 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 25 //  5 PM - 9 PM  Saturday July 26 // 6 AM - 9 AM

Streets will remain closed at night with security.

SHOW HOURS // SAT July 26,9 AM - 5 PM // SUN July 27, 10 AM- 3 PM

All vendors must 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 

For many, our shows are the season's highlight, and we promote our artists extensively on our website and social media. Our customers love to pre-shop and plan their day, which is an extra benefit compared to other handmade markets. This is just one of the many things that sets us apart!

As an artist at our event, you’ll enjoy:

• Exposure to over 8,000 customers eager to buy handcrafted products and meet you, the artist
• Product image, business name, and links featured on our website
• A dedicated landing page with detailed information about your business, including links to your website, Facebook, and Instagram
• Promotional event graphics you can share on your Instagram, Facebook, or website
• A listing on a printed and digital floor plan for easy customer navigation
• A name tag and other great swag
• Additional promotional opportunities via featured artists and raffles.

PROMOTION   Our events consistently draw large crowds, and we put a lot of effort into attracting diverse customers. In addition to promoting through our website, Facebook, and Instagram, we use the following methods to advertise well in advance:

• Printed media: 5,000 rack cards, 500 posters, and 5,000 mini cards
• Advertisements in local newspapers and magazines
• Radio spots
• Glacier Country Tourism partner advertising
• Social media ads on Facebook and Instagram
• Calendar listings in newspapers, online, and magazines
• Digital and printed floor plan maps to help guide customers to your booth

We ensure our events are widely promoted to maximize visibility and foot traffic for our artists!

ACCOMMODATIONS

We are committed to organizing local options 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 offering homestays to fellow participants.  

FLATHEAD CHERRY FESTIVAL 

Polson, MT // July 26-27 // Main Street

   The Flathead Cherry Festival has become a cornerstone event for those who appreciate the stunning beauty of the Flathead Valley. Its growing popularity reflects the community’s enthusiasm and support, and we are proud of its continued positive impact. From indulging in a slice of delicious cherry pie to exploring a curated selection of top-tier vendors, the two-day celebration will be a vibrant showcase of art, food, and community spirit set against the picturesque backdrop of Flathead Lake.

    HandMADE Montana invites you to submit your application for this milestone as a non-profit, school group, or club. Held on the last weekend of July, the festival celebrates the cherry harvest while spotlighting talented artists, delectable food, local businesses, and the sense of connection that makes our community thrive. 

    Presented by HandMADE Montana—a professional organization dedicated to supporting art and handcrafted goods—the Flathead Cherry Festival exemplifies our commitment to fostering growth, providing resources for artists, and enriching our community through vibrant events.

APPLICATION PROCESS

This application is for local non-profits and school groups or clubs. Non-profits applying to the Flathead Cherry Festival must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations, with preference given to those benefiting the Flathead Lake region. Applications should include a completed form, mission statement, and a description of proposed activities or products, ensuring alignment with festival policies and family-friendly values. Booths must be professional, staffed during event hours, and adhere to festival rules.

HOW TO APPLY

1. Fill out the online application.

2. Upload images.

IMPORTANT DATES

• January  15: Accepting applications
• April 15: Deadline for submissions
• May 1: Accepted and declined artisans notified by email
• May 15: Booth fees due

BOOTH FEES // SET-UP // EVENT HOURS

• 10’ x 10’   $250  Non-profit $125 // School Group or Club: $75
• 20 ’x 10’   $425 Non-profit $200 // School Group or Club: $100

 All non-profit and school group booths will be located on 4th Ave. Chairs, tables, and electricity are not provided or available. 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. 

 SET-UP: Friday July 25 //  5 PM - 9 PM  Saturday July 26 // 6 AM - 9 AM

Streets will remain closed at night with security.

SHOW HOURS // SAT July 26,9 AM - 5 PM // SUN July 27, 10 AM- 3 PM

All vendors must 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 

For many, our shows are the season's highlight, and we promote our artists extensively on our website and social media. Our customers love to pre-shop and plan their day, which is an extra benefit compared to other handmade markets. This is just one of the many things that sets us apart!

As an artist at our event, you’ll enjoy:

• Exposure to over 8,000 customers eager to buy handcrafted products and meet you, the artist
• Product image, business name, and links featured on our website
• A dedicated landing page with detailed information about your business, including links to your website, Facebook, and Instagram
• Promotional event graphics you can share on your Instagram, Facebook, or website
• A listing on a printed and digital floor plan for easy customer navigation
• A name tag and other great swag
• Additional promotional opportunities via featured artists and raffles.

PROMOTION   Our events consistently draw large crowds, and we put a lot of effort into attracting diverse customers. In addition to promoting through our website, Facebook, and Instagram, we use the following methods to advertise well in advance:

• Printed media: 5,000 rack cards, 500 posters, and 5,000 mini cards
• Advertisements in local newspapers and magazines
• Radio spots
• Glacier Country Tourism partner advertising
• Social media ads on Facebook and Instagram
• Calendar listings in newspapers, online, and magazines
• Digital and printed floor plan maps to help guide customers to your booth

We ensure our events are widely promoted to maximize visibility and foot traffic for our artists!

 ACCOMMODATIONS

We are committed to organizing local options 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 offering homestays to fellow participants. 

Flathead Cherry Festival 

Polson, MT // July 26-27 // Main Street 

The Flathead Cherry Festival has become a cornerstone event for those who appreciate the stunning beauty of the Flathead Valley. Its growing popularity reflects the community’s enthusiasm and support, and we are proud of its continued positive impact. From indulging in a slice of delicious cherry pie to exploring a curated selection of top-tier vendors, the two-day celebration will be a vibrant showcase of art, food, and community spirit set against the picturesque backdrop of Flathead Lake.

  HandMADE Montana invites you to submit your application for this milestone event. Held on the last weekend of July, the festival celebrates the cherry harvest while spotlighting talented artists, delectable food, local businesses, and the sense of connection that makes our community thrive. 

  Presented by HandMADE Montana—a professional organization dedicated to supporting art and handcrafted goods—the Flathead Cherry Festival exemplifies our commitment to fostering growth, providing resources for artists, and enriching our community through vibrant events.

APPLICATION PROCESS

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 orchards

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 on 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 fe

BOOTH FEES // SET-UP // EVENT HOURS

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

IMPORTANT DATES

• January  15: Accepting applications
• April 15: Deadline for submissions
• May 1: Accepted and declined artisans notified by email
• May 15: Booth fees due

BOOTH FEES // SET-UP // EVENT HOURS

• 10’ x 10’   $250 Cherry Orchard: $150
• 20 ’x 10’   $425 Cherry Orchard $300
• 30 ’x 10’  (or food truck)  $600

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 or available.  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 slightly increased from previous years, we want to highlight that a substantial addition of handMADE Montana benefits accompanies this adjustment. 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 25 //  5 PM - 9 PM  Saturday July 26 // 6 AM - 9 AM

Streets will remain closed at night with security.

SHOW HOURS // SAT July 26,9 AM - 5 PM // SUN July 27, 10 AM- 3 PM

All vendors must 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 

For many, our shows are the season's highlight, and we promote our artists extensively on our website and social media. Our customers love to pre-shop and plan their day, which is an extra benefit compared to other handmade markets. This is just one of the many things that sets us apart!

As an artist at our event, you’ll enjoy:

• Exposure to over 8,000 customers eager to buy handcrafted products and meet you, the artist
• Product image, business name, and links featured on our website
• A dedicated landing page with detailed information about your business, including links to your website, Facebook, and Instagram
• Promotional event graphics you can share on your Instagram, Facebook, or website
• A listing on a printed and digital floor plan for easy customer navigation
• A name tag and other great swag
• Additional promotional opportunities via featured artists and raffles.

PROMOTION   Our events consistently draw large crowds, and we put a lot of effort into attracting diverse customers. In addition to promoting through our website, Facebook, and Instagram, we use the following methods to advertise well in advance:

• Printed media: 5,000 rack cards, 500 posters, and 5,000 mini cards
• Advertisements in local newspapers and magazines
• Radio spots
• Glacier Country Tourism partner advertising
• Social media ads on Facebook and Instagram
• Calendar listings in newspapers, online, and magazines
• Digital and printed floor plan maps to help guide customers to your booth

We ensure our events are widely promoted to maximize visibility and foot traffic for our artists!

ACCOMMODATIONS

We are committed to organizing local options 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 offering homestays to fellow participants.   

The handMADE Montana retail shop features a carefully curated collection of modern handcrafted goods from over 100 talented local and regional artists. We're excited to expand our offerings and are searching for a few new artists to join us in-store and potentially online.

While we typically select artists from our MADE fairs, we didn’t have the chance to connect with everyone in person this year. So, we’re casting a virtual net to find fresh talent to showcase during the holiday season and beyond.

If you’re interested in being part of our shop, we invite you to submit your work! Upload images of your best-selling creations, and tell us what makes your products unique and why you’d be a great fit. Think of it as your audition to join our growing community.

Our shop is currently brick-and-mortar, but we’re expanding our online presence daily to offer an even broader selection of goods. We’d love for you to be part of this exciting journey!

Benefits of being a handMADE Montana Retail Shop Artist
• The shop operates on a 60% (artist) 40% (commission), and checks are sent out monthly.
• Meet the Artist Series blog, FB, IG posts
• Online product selling options
• Exposure to local and tourist traffic visiting Polson, MT (It is a lot during the summer)
• Options to teach small workshops