2026 Flathead Cherry Festival // Artist

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FLATHEAD CHERRY FESTIVAL 

Polson, MT // July 25-26 // Main Street

The Flathead Cherry Festival has become a cornerstone summer event in the Flathead Valley, drawing growing crowds year after year and earning a reputation for its high-quality vendors, welcoming atmosphere, and stunning lakeside setting. What began as a local celebration has grown into a much-anticipated regional event, reflecting both the community’s enthusiasm and the festival’s continued positive impact. From enjoying a slice of classic cherry pie to browsing a thoughtfully curated selection of artists, makers, food vendors, and local businesses, the two-day festival offers a vibrant showcase of creativity, flavor, and community spirit set against the backdrop of Flathead Lake.

HandMADE Montana invites you to apply to be part of this milestone event. Held annually on the last weekend of July, the Flathead Cherry Festival celebrates the region’s iconic cherry harvest while bringing together talented artists, exceptional food vendors, and community-focused businesses. With strong attendance and increasing visibility each year, the festival offers vendors an opportunity to connect withlocals and visitors during one of the busiest times of the summer season.

Presented by HandMADE Montana in partnership with the Polson Chamber of Commerce, the Flathead Cherry Festival reflects a shared commitment to producing high-quality, well-organized events that support creative businesses, foster meaningful connections, and strengthen the local community.

 APPLICATION PROCESS

The Flathead Cherry Festival is a juried event, ensuring a curated selection of high-quality work from artisans, makers, and creatives. During the jurying process, applications are thoughtfully evaluated based on craftsmanship, originality, and the unique artistry of each piece. To maintain the integrity of the festival, all items must be designed and handcrafted by the artist—mass-produced goods are not permitted.

Supporting Montana’s creative community is central to the festival’s mission. While we welcome exceptional regional applicants, priority is given to artists who live and work in Montana, particularly in highly competitive categories. The festival proudly features a strong mix of local and regional talent, and every application receives careful consideration.

All handcrafted and artist booths will be prominently located along Main Street during the event, unless an alternative placement is requested and approved. While not required, cherry-themed products are highly encouraged as a fun way to enhance the festive atmosphere and celebrate the Flathead Valley’s 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. 

Booth fees for this year remain the same as last year. Your booth fee covers not only your participation in the event, but also access to the full range of HandMADE Montana benefits designed to support artists and enhance visibility before, during, and after the show. We believe these benefits add significant value and contribute to a successful, well-supported event experience.

 SET-UP: Friday July 24 //  5 PM - 9 PM  Saturday, July 25 // 6 AM - 9 AM

Streets will remain closed at night with security.

SHOW HOURS // SAT July 25, 9 AM - 5 PM // SUN July 26, 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 affect 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 set 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, non-profits, and food vendors.

ACCOMMODATIONS

We are committed to coordinating local dry camping options exclusively for vendors. Once you receive your acceptance email, you’ll be provided with detailed information and instructions on how to reserve a camping spot. We also encourage local vendors who have available space to consider offering homestays to fellow participants. Please note that lodging in Polson and the surrounding areas fills quickly, so we strongly recommend securing accommodations as early as possible, even prior to acceptance.

ARTIST INSURANCE

While HandMADE Montana carries event insurance that covers general liability and protects against injury at our events, this coverage does not extend to individual artists’ inventory, equipment, or displays. We strongly encourage artists to consider purchasing their own insurance policy to help protect their work against loss, theft, or damage—both during events and while in transit. It’s important to note that products and inventory are typically not covered under personal auto insurance while being transported. Artist-focused policies, such as those offered by companies like ACT Insurance, are designed specifically for makers and small businesses. Insurance is not required to participate in our events, but we highly recommend it as a smart way to protect the time, creativity, and investment behind your work.

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