TRAVERSE CITY — The National Cherry Festival hosted a “Special Cherry Kids Day” today, providing a full and sensory-friendly cherry experience for people with special needs and their families.
The event at the Open Space and carnival midway ensured a welcoming environment free from the loud music and overwhelming crowds often present at the annual festival.
Big festival crowds and loud music can be overstimulating for many people with special needs. This special day was set aside to address those concerns by offering adapted activities.
Activities included balloon animals, face painting, bowling, a bouncy castle and free ice cream. Arnold Amusements partnered with the festival to close the carnival to the public, allowing attendees to enjoy rides without the usual large crowds.
The event is often a highlight of the week for many children attending the National Cherry Festival. Attendees also had the chance to interact with Cherry Royalty.Ainslee Hewitt, the 2025-2026 National Cherry Queen, expressed the profound impact of the day. “You know, sometimes you think a crown and sash doesn’t carry you very far in life, but to these kiddos, it means the world,” Hewitt said. “They’re so excited. Of course, I mean, there’s free ice cream, so they’re so excited to see that. But to see our impact is truly magical.”
National Cherry Festival Executive Director Kat Paye emphasized the inclusivity of “Cherry Special Kids Day.” “Cherry Special Kids Day is an incredible opportunity for everyone to come out and joy the festival on their own,” Paye said. Paye noted that the event benefits not just children with special needs, but their entire support system. “It’s just a great time for them and their families. It’s not just those that are differently abled. It’s also that we have the siblings, the parents. Everyone gets to come enjoy.”
Hewitt also highlighted the loyalty and sense of belonging the event fosters. “I was talking with families saying that this is their fifth, sixth, seventh year of attending this event and every year they want to come back because they feel included, they feel loved,” Hewitt said.
Festival organizers ensure the event remains flexible and responsive to community needs. Paye explained that feedback from parents and educators is crucial to its success. “We’ve had a lot of educators over the years who’ve advised us on what makes the most sense and the families are great resources to tell us what is best for their kids. And we just have listened and created what this is today.”
Many of the children find the day to be a fun experience. Jenna Triseh, an attendee, shared her favorite part of the carnival. When asked about her favorite ride, the Tilt-A-Whirl, Triseh responded, “Because it makes people dizzy.”
Hewitt conveyed her personal connection to the event. “I wish that everyone could be a fly on the wall and just see the smiles that they have on their faces,” Hewitt said. “I wear the crown and sash happily, but it’s because of this community I’m able to represent the way that I do.”