YOUNG CHERRY FESTIVAL MARKS HISTORIC 75TH ANNIVERSARY

Monday, 8 December 2025

The National Cherry Festival has marked its 75th anniversary in spectacular fashion.

Home to Australia’s first commercial cherry orchard, Young has proudly hosted this much-loved celebration since 1949.

What began as a small-town gathering has grown into a three-day festival that attracts thousands of visitors to the Hilltops region each year.

Joined by NSW Minister for Tourism Steve Kamper, Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke said she was proud to join officials to open this year’s milestone edition.

“Not only does Young grow the best cherries, but it’s also home to one of the very best festivals regional NSW has to offer,” Ms Cooke said.

“The organisers and council do a tremendous job every year to deliver a jam-packed program, and this year has been no exception.

“But the festival wouldn’t be what it is today without the fresh, delicious cherries our region is famous for, and we couldn’t be prouder of our growers, who have worked tirelessly in the lead-up to this weekend’s celebrations.”

This year’s festival shared in $4 million as part of the NSW Government’s Stronger Together Local Council Major Festival program which supports multicultural celebrations across the state.

Ms Cooke said the funding demonstrated the Government’s commitment to supporting cultural significant events, particularly in regional areas.

“Over the past 8 years, the National Cherry Festival has received numerous grants from successive governments,” Ms Cooke said.

“I’m grateful that the NSW Government continues to see the value of our multicultural heritage and contribution to the state’s economy and agricultural output.”

Friday evening saw the augural Multicultural Cherry Fiesta – an international food affair celebrating the region’s diverse cultures and culinary excellence.

Launching into the weekend, farmers across the region also opened their farm gates to visitors for ‘pick-your-own’ and ‘paddock-to-plate’ experiences.

Back at the main stage, this year welcomed the return of crowd favourite events, including the Cherry Pie Eating Competition and the ‘Pip Spit’.