The peak of Canadian cherry season is mid-July to mid-August when cherry lovers across Canada can enjoy the superb quality and taste of delicious and nutritious Canadian cherries, and this summer promises to be like no other.
The BC Cherry Association (BCCA) is launching Canadian Cherry Month to showcase the outstanding quality and taste of Canadian cherries and to celebrate the hardworking farmers and producers who ensure superb quality and freshness from farm to table, from coast to coast.
From July 15-August 15, 2023, Canadians can participate in a variety of cherry-themed promotions across the country.
Canadian Cherry recipe contests, photo contests, and in-store retail cherry celebrations are just a few of the many ways to shine a light on Canadian cherries this summer.
During Canadian Cherry Month retail grocers are encouraged to participate in a national retail display contest aimed at promoting these juicy sweet summer treats.
The BCCA will provide downloadable, customizable marketing and messaging assets to support the program as well as great prizes for contest winners.
To support the program, the BCCA will be executing a national consumer campaign comprised of contests, promotions, a digital ad campaign, and PR campaign.
Cherries have a long and rich history in Canada, dating back to the late 1800s when cherry trees were first planted in the Okanagan Valley.
Cherry farming has become an integral part of British Columbia’s agriculture industry. 95% of Canadian sweet cherries are grown in BC with over 400 cherry growers producing over 20,000 tonnes of cherries each year.
British Columbia’s unique climate and rich soils in the Okanagan, Similkameen, and Creston Valleys make it the ideal place to grow cherries.
With a mild climate, sun-drenched summers, and ample irrigation, these regions are renowned for producing some of the world’s finest cherries.
Cherries from British Columbia are known for their sweet flavour, deep color, and firm texture, all thanks to their unique growing conditions.
The cold winters in these regions allow cherry trees to rest fully between crops, resulting in larger cherries each year.
Additionally, the northerly latitude means longer days with more hours of warm sunshine during the ripening season, making the cherries even sweeter and more flavourful.
As more Canadians aim to buy domestic products, participation in Canadian Cherry Month is the ideal way for retailers to appeal to consumers, create in-store engagement, and increase sales.
Sign up here to receive Canadian Cherry Month updates, upcoming promotions, and details of the retail display contest, or contact the BC Cherry Association for more information.