One thing about the National Cherry Festival is that around town, you can see all the different ways people celebrate.
Some locals say instead of heading down to the Open Space, they are instead decorating their home and lawns.
This is a tradition that was born from the pandemic. They call it the Porch Parade.
If you were to head down to 10th Street, 6th Street, or Washington Street, you are sure to see some cherries.
“Lots of different cars and everything driving by, people walking the neighborhoods looking for what’s there, and just chatting. But it’s been a really good tradition,” said Kathy Balchunas, a Porch Parade participant. “I think it’s new, it’s exciting, and we will continue to do it.”
Kathy and her husband say it’s been a perfect time to catch back up with neighbors.
“With the year being shutdown, it makes you appreciate all of the good stuff and new traditions. Out COVID came the Porch Parade and it’s another thing that people can do when they come to Traverse City,” says Balchunas.
They have already purchased a giant LED cherry, and they plan to hang in their yard next year.
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