TEXAS — Mark your calendars and your menus — June 18 is National Cherry Tart Day, and there’s no sweeter way to celebrate than by indulging in one of summer’s most beloved desserts. Whether you’re a lifelong lover of fruit-filled pastries or simply looking for a reason to satisfy your sweet tooth, this day offers a delicious opportunity to pay tribute to the cherry tart in all its flaky, ruby-red glory.
From Savory Origins to Fruity Fame
Though tarts once began as savory meat-filled dishes in medieval Europe, they’ve come a long way. The cherry tart, a favorite among fruit tart lovers, combines the richness of a buttery crust with the bright, tangy burst of seasonal cherries. According to culinary lore, the earliest recipes resembling modern tarts date back to the 15th century. By the 19th century, cherry cultivation had become a booming industry in the U.S., especially in Michigan, which now produces 75% of the nation’s cherry crop.
The roots of National Cherry Tart Day are believed to be intertwined with the National Cherry Festival held annually in Traverse City, Michigan — a celebration of the cherry harvest that draws thousands of visitors each summer.
Cherry Trees in America: A Fruitful Legacy
Cherries first made their way to North America in the 1600s with French settlers. The fruit’s commercial cultivation began in earnest in 1852, when missionary Peter Dougherty planted the first cherry trees on Michigan’s Old Mission Peninsula. To the settlers’ surprise, the trees thrived. By 1893, Michigan had planted its first cherry orchards, launching a new agricultural tradition.
Today, the U.S. produces over 650 million pounds of cherries annually — a bounty that fills everything from pies and jams to the iconic cherry tart.
Pick-Your-Own: A Sweet Outing for Families
At The Texas Insider, we’re always scouting for wholesome ways to get outdoors and connect with the community — and what better way to celebrate than by visiting a pick-your-own cherry farm? These family-friendly spots offer a hands-on harvest experience where you can gather the freshest fruits of the season straight from the tree. It’s farm-to-table fun without the fuss of planting or growing — just pick, pay, and enjoy.
Skip the store’s plastic clamshells and enjoy cherries the way nature (and local farmers) intended. Plus, each season brings new produce to explore.
We recommend visiting PickYourOwn.org — a trusted resource featuring an interactive map of U.S. farms, including plenty in Texas. It’s your one-stop guide to finding nearby orchards, harvest calendars, and tips for a successful outing.
Ready to Celebrate? Here’s How:
- Bake or buy a cherry tart and share it with loved ones.
- Visit a local farm and pick your own cherries.
- Tag your treats on social media using #CherryTartDay or #PickYourOwnTX.
- Check out recipes for cherry tarts, galettes, and turnovers using fresh Texas produce.
This June 18, whether you’re baking with the family or venturing out to pick your own fruit, remember: there’s nothing quite like a homemade cherry tart to bring a little joy — and flavor — into your day.
