Few fruits capture the essence of summer quite like cherries. Juicy, sweet, and refreshingly tart, cherries are a seasonal favourite that many eagerly await each year. However, cherry season doesn’t arrive at the same time everywhere—it varies depending on the climate and region. So, when are cherries in season in the US, UK, and Canada? Knowing the peak times in your area helps you enjoy the freshest, most flavorful fruit, whether you’re shopping at the market or planning a cherry-picking adventure.
In this guide, we’ll break down cherry season by country and region, covering the best months to find sweet and sour cherries in top growing areas. From California’s early harvest to Canada’s late-summer bounty and the UK’s brief but delicious cherry window, here’s everything you need to know to time your cherry cravings just right.
Cherry Season Basics: Sweet vs Sour Cherries
Before diving into regional cherry harvest season times, it’s essential to comprehend the two primary varieties of cherries: sweet cherries and sour cherries, also known as tart or pie cherries. While they may look similar at first glance, their flavour profiles, uses, and growing seasons differ in key ways.
Sweet cherries are plump, juicy, and—true to their name—naturally sweet. They’re perfect for eating fresh and are the type most commonly found in supermarkets during early summer. Varieties like Bing, Rainier, and Chelan are fan favourites, often enjoyed as snacks or used in cherry season fruit salads and summer desserts.
On the other hand, sour cherries have a tangier flavour and higher acidity, making them ideal for cooking and baking. You’ll find them in classic cherry pies, jams, sauces, and preserves. The most popular variety, Montmorency, is especially prized in North America for its culinary uses and health benefits.
As for timing, sweet cherries typically ripen in early summer, while sour cherries reach their peak a bit later, in midsummer. Both types are grown across various regions in the US, UK, and Canada, but the climate and geography of each area affect when they are in season. In the sections below, we’ll break down those seasonal windows by country so you can enjoy your favourite cherries at their freshest.
When Are Cherries in Season in the United States?
In the United States, when is cherry season spans a few short but flavorful months, generally running from late May to early August. The region and variation have an impact on the precise timing, with warm states like California kicking things off and cooler climates like Michigan and New York extending the harvest into mid to late summer.
Regional Cherry Season Breakdown:
- California: As one of the first states to produce cherries each year, California’s harvest typically begins in May and wraps up by early June. The warm climate allows for an early crop, especially in the San Joaquin Valley.
- Pacific Northwest (Washington & Oregon): This is the heart of the US sweet cherry industry, with harvests peaking from June to mid-July. Washington alone grows more than half of the nation’s cherries, including premium varieties like Bing and Rainier.
- Michigan: Known as the sour cherry capital of the US, Michigan comes into season around mid-July. The state’s cooler climate is ideal for cultivating Montmorency cherries, the most popular tart cherry seasons used in pies and preserves.
- New York: In the Northeast, cherry season typically runs from late June through early August, with both sweet and sour varieties available at local farms and orchards.
Popular Cherry Varieties in the US:
- Bing: Deep red, sweet, and juicy—ideal for fresh eating
- Rainier: Yellow and red-blushed skin, ultra-sweet, premium flavour
- Montmorency: Bright red and tart, perfect for baking and drying
Bonus Tip:
Where are cherries in season now? Looking to make the most of cherry season? Many cherry orchards across the US offer U-Pick experiences, where you can harvest your fruit straight from the tree, perfect for families and fruit lovers alike. Also, be sure to check your local farmers’ markets, where cherries are often fresher, more affordable, and grown closer to home than those in supermarkets.
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When Are Cherries in Season in the United Kingdom?
When do cherries come in season? In the United Kingdom, cherry picking season is relatively brief but highly anticipated, typically peaking from mid-June to late July. Due to the UK’s cooler and more temperate climate, the growing window is shorter than in many other countries, and weather patterns can significantly influence the harvest.
Key Cherry-Growing Regions:
- Kent – Often referred to as the “Garden of England,” Kent is the UK’s leading cherry-producing region, known for its fertile soil and favourable microclimate.
- Herefordshire – Another critical area for cherry cultivation, particularly for heritage and dessert varieties.
Popular UK Cherry Varieties:
- Merton Glory – A pale red, early-season cherry with a sweet, floral flavour.
- Penny – Dark-skinned and firm with a rich, juicy taste—ideal for eating fresh.
- Summer Sun – A later-season cherry, prized for its balanced sweetness and resistance to rain damage.
Seasonal Note:
One thing to keep in mind is that the UK cherry season is highly weather-dependent. A cool or wet spring can delay the blossom and harvest by several weeks, while An early spring might result from a warm, dry spring and more abundant crop. This variability makes locally grown cherries even more of a treat when they finally arrive in markets and farm shops.
For the freshest experience, look for pick-your-own farms or local greengrocers during peak season—you’ll be supporting British growers while enjoying cherries at their finest.
When Are Cherries in Season in Canada?
When do cherries come into season? Canada’s cherry season runs from mid-June to early August, depending on the region and climate. Though the growing season is relatively short, Canada produces high-quality cherries that are enjoyed both domestically and internationally. Thanks to ideal conditions in some provinces, Canadian cherries are known for their size, sweetness, and vibrant flavour.
Cherry Season by Province:
- British Columbia (Okanagan Valley): As Canada’s largest cherry-producing region, BC leads the way in both volume and quality. The season here begins in late June and can stretch into early August, with the Okanagan Valley offering the most favourable growing conditions in the country.
- Ontario: Cherry production in Ontario is minor but still significant, with orchards mainly located along the Niagara Peninsula. Harvest typically begins in early July and ends by late July, offering both sweet and tart varieties for local markets.
- Quebec: With a more limited climate for cherry farming, Quebec produces a smaller amount of cherries, usually harvested during July. Most of these are sold fresh within the province.
Popular Canadian Cherry Varieties:
- Lapins – Large, dark red, sweet cherries with excellent shelf life
- Skeena – Firm, sweet, and juicy with a deep colour and rich taste
- Sweetheart – A late-season variety that’s crisp, flavorful, and ideal for export
Did You Know?
Canada’s cherry export season peaks in July and August, especially from British Columbia, where growers ship fresh cherries to markets across the U.S., Asia, and Europe. If you’re looking to taste Canadian-grown cherries at their absolute best, shop local during this time or visit orchards for U-Pick experiences in regions like Kelowna or Penticton.
Tips for Enjoying Cherries at Their Best
When are rainier cherries in season? Whether you’re snacking straight from the bowl or whipping up a homemade cherry pie, knowing how to choose, store, and preserve cherries can help you make the most of their short but sweet season.
How to Tell if Cherries Are Ripe and Fresh
When selecting cherries, look for firm, glossy skin with a rich colour—deep red, bright yellow-red (Rainier), or near-black, depending on the variety. Instead of being brittle or brown, the stems ought to be supple and green. Avoid soft, wrinkled, or bruised cherries, as these are signs of overripeness or poor handling.
Storage Tips
Cherries are highly perishable and best enjoyed fresh. For optimal freshness:
- Refrigerate cherries as soon as possible—preferably unwashed and in a breathable container or open bag.
- Don’t wash until you’re ready to eat them; moisture can speed up spoilage.
- Cherries can typically last up to 5–7 days in the fridge when stored properly.
How to Freeze or Preserve Cherries
To enjoy cherries year-round, freezing or preserving is the way to go:
- Freezing: Wash, pit, and spread cherries on a baking sheet to freeze individually. After that, store for up to six months in airtight bags or containers.
- Preserving: Make cherry jam, syrup, or compote, or use a dehydrator to create dried cherries for baking and snacks.
Best Uses for Cherries
- Snacks: Sweet cherries like Bing and Rainier are perfect fresh out of the fridge.
- Baking: Tart varieties like Montmorency shine in pies, tarts, and cobblers.
- Preserves: Make delicious jams, jellies, or chutneys.
- Drinks: Fresh cherries can be muddled into cocktails, infused in sparkling water, or blended into smoothies.
With just a bit of care and creativity, you can savour the sweet taste of cherry season well beyond the summer months.
Are Cherries in Season
Yes, are cherries seasonal fruit, and their peak season depends on the region. Generally, in the Northern Hemisphere, cherries are in season from late spring to mid or late summer, typically May through August. The exact timing varies:
- In the US: Late May to early August, starting earlier in places like California and later in states like Michigan and New York.
- In the UK: Mid-June to late July.
- In Canada: Mid-June to early August.
Are cherries still in season? Outside these months, fresh cherries are usually not in season locally, but you might find imported cherries or frozen/preserved options.
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Conclusion:
Cherry season is truly one of the highlights of the year, but it’s also short and sweet, making it all the more special. With harvest windows typically running from late spring through midsummer, the best cherries are available for just a few weeks, depending on your location. Whether you’re in the US, UK, or Canada, timing your cherry purchases—or picking trips—can make all the difference in flavour and quality.
To enjoy cherries at their absolute best, consider visiting local farms, orchards, or farmers’ markets during peak season. Not only will you find the freshest fruit, but you’ll also be supporting local agriculture and reducing the time your produce spends in transit.
Eating in season isn’t just about flavour—it’s about better nutrition, lower environmental impact, and a deeper connection to your local food systems. So next time cherry season rolls around, mark your calendar and savour every juicy bite while it lasts.
FAQs:
1. What month are cherries in season?
The season for cherries usually lasts from late May to early August, depending on the country and region. In the US, cherry season starts in May in California and lasts until August in states like New York and Michigan. In the UK, the season runs from mid-June to late July, while in Canada, it usually peaks between mid-June and early August.
2. When is cherry blossom season vs cherry fruit season?
Cherry blossom season occurs in early to mid-spring (March–April), while cherry fruit season starts several weeks later, from late May through August, depending on the location and weather conditions.
3. Can you buy cherries year-round?
While fresh, locally grown cherries are only available in season, you can sometimes find imported cherries (mainly from Chile or Australia) during the off-season, especially in winter. You can also buy frozen, dried, or preserved cherries year-round.
4. How can I tell if cherries are ripe?
Ripe cherries should have firm, plump skin with deep, vibrant colour and green, flexible stems. Avoid cherries that are soft, wrinkled, or leaking juice, as these are likely overripe or damaged.
5. What are the best cherry varieties for eating and baking?
- Best for eating fresh: Bing, Rainier, Sweetheart
- Best for baking/preserving: Montmorency, Morello, North Star (tart cherries)
6. How long do cherries last after picking?
Fresh cherries can last about 5 to 7 days in the refrigerator if stored unwashed in a breathable container. For more extended storage, you can freeze, dry, or preserve them.
