Cherry Festival attendance unpredictable

TRAVERSE CITY -- Gas is more than $4 a gallon, food prices are at an all-time high, the cherry crop has taken a hit, yet National Cherry Festival officials aren't expecting fewer-than-normal celebrants.

"We don't forecast, because unlike other business models, ours is so unpredictable," said Tom Menzel, Cherry Festival's executive director. "I would say that if the weather is good and if the gas prices don't deter people from traveling to TC, with the venue we have with the entertainment stage, we should have an extremely successful festival."

High gas and food prices haven't deterred food vendors from claiming festival spots, Menzel said.

And clear skies and pleasant temperatures this weekend should help attract plenty of celebrants.

"As our reputation and brand name continues to improve, it's even more desirable for people to be involved with us," Menzel said. "We have to pick and choose to get the best (vendors)."

Jamie Hansen, owner of festival favorite Gibby's Fries, said their projections haven't been negative, either.

"We've done a few other areas, and they've been good turnout," Hansen said. "The economy isn't the greatest, but you always hope for the best."

Hansen said it's always a shot-in-the-dark when stocking up supplies for the Cherry Festival.

"You have to guess," Hansen said. "But we have the ability to order throughout the week after we see how many people come."

Turnout is expected to be strong this weekend with the U.S. Navy Blue Angels in town. The flight team brings its act to town every other year and maintains a loyal fan base.

Festival revenues usually increase about 20 percent when the Blue Angels appear, Menzel said.

This year, the Cherry Festival is drawing international attention. Menzel recently tuned in to a BBC radio broadcast and a caller in London asked for information about Traverse City and the festival, details that Menzel quickly provided.

"I had a little trouble with the accent, but there's no way you buy that coverage," Menzel said.

Photos

Ken Ramos of Bridgeport, Conn., left, and Traverse City residents James Routzahn and girlfriend Jennifer Midkiff watch the Blue Angels practice their flight acrobatics Thursday afternoon at the Open Space in Traverse City. Record-Eagle

Traverse City resident Johanna Schmidt cycles through the National Cherry Festival welcome entrance. Record-Eagle

Traverse City residents Deb Goddard and husband Mike Goddard watch the Blue Angels practice. 'I don-t want to fight the crowd to get this close,' Mike said. Record-Eagle

Spectators, including from left, Butch McCrimmon of Lake Ann, and Ken Ramos of Bridgeport, Conn., watch the Blue Angels practice on Thursday at the Open Space. Record-Eagle