Cherry Blossoms, Vintage Wines, & Asparagus In Traverse City, Michigan!

When it comes to cherry blossoms most people think of Washington DC. What few realize is that each May Traverse City, Michigan has one of America's most impressive floral displays. Imagine 2.6 million blooming cherry trees climbing the steep glacial ridges like battalions of tidy white clouds, their soft lines contrasting with bright new grass, acres of yellow dandelions and the cobalt blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay. Yes, this is the natural beauty that locals enjoy each spring.

"It´s one of our big secrets," says Sarah West of the Chateau Chantal, a 65-acre vineyard and winery estate on the nearby Old Mission Peninsula, in the heart of Traverse City´s fruit-growing country. Cherries are deeply woven into the fabric of everyday life in Traverse City, which bills itself as the "Cherry Capital of the World."

In celebration of the spring the peninsula´s vineyards and restaurants hold the annual Blossom Days in Mid May. You can also enjoy days of touring and tastings at beautiful wineries located on some of the most breathtaking sites in the area. Our wineries are located on two beautiful peninsulas extending north from Traverse City - the Leelanau Peninsula and the Old Mission Peninsula. During the Blossom Days festival enjoy barrel tastings of reserve vintages from the peninsula´s wineries, plus special menu

offerings at local restaurants.

Also in Mid May is the Annual Empire Asparagus Fest! During this event the picturesque lakeshore village of Empire celebrates the arrival of wild asparagus with cookouts, athletic events, a parade and a contest for the year´s most creative "Ode to Asparagus." To learn more about this event visit www.downtowntc.com.

Stick around over the weekend and join the Traverse City Kids Expo that turns the Grand Traverse County Civic Center into "Kid City" for two days in Mid May. For families this is Michigan's largest and most fun-filled children's and family event filled with top notch entertainment, hands-on fun activities and the latest products. Learn more about activities and schedules by visiting www.kidsexpos.com.

Planning your getaway to Traverse City is simple. Just visit the Traverse City Convention & Visitors Bureau at www.VisitTraverseCity.com to view discounts and packages available as well as local events and attractions to enjoy.

Photo Credits: Traverse City CVB