TRAVERSE CITY -- That's a wrap, as they say in show business.
The 83rd National Cherry Festival concluded Saturday with record crowds, warm temperatures and good vibes shared by festival-goers and officials.
"I think the Cherry Festival is cool because my sister was in the pie-eating contest," said Will Biles, 9, of Alabama. "I want to come back because it's fun."
Attendees flocked to festival favorites such as the Cherry Pie-Eating Contest and the Ultimate Air Dogs Competition, and also tried many new venues.
The Global Wine Pavilion was one such new feature; it showcased 112 wines and food from four of the area's top restaurants.
"We did it right," said Matt Sutherland, event producer. "That's what feels good about it. This was not just another wine and food thing."
Layouts for both the Open Space and midway represented major changes this year. The Open Space layout was altered from previous years to enhance vendor visibility and reduce congestion. The midway moved to east of Union Street, again to increase visibility. Guests seemed to appreciate both moves.
"I like how the midway is set up, and the kids really like Gibbysville," said Shannin Ryan, of Traverse City.
Saturday morning's Festival of Races saw record crowds and improvements from previous races.
"The major change is the Front Street finish," said Lisa Taylor, event director. "It's more of a festive, positive race atmosphere down here."
The 5k and 15k races combined had more than 2,800 registered participants, up more than 200 from last year.
"I've run this probably over 30 times," said Rockford resident Kris Schulz. "I love this race. I'm way out of shape, but I ran today anyway."
Saturday's Cherry Royale Parade, an annual favorite, attracted 160 entries.
"We like to do parades," said Muskegon resident Paula Doig. "If there's a parade around and we're not from the place, we go. It's good for all of us to get out and see what's going on."
Parade favorites included the Scottville Clown Band, the Great Lakes Two Cylinder Club and Rotary Drill Team.
Traverse City resident Melinda Lombardi rode herd over a large stroller that held several children. The parade capably held the young viewers' interest, she said.
"This is the first year the kids lasted the whole parade," she said.
Business owners along the parade route said the procession and Cherry Festival stood up to other years, particularly in a rough economy.
"Business was about the same," said Tom and Jerry's Dog House owner and chief cook, Tom McManus. "People always find $2.50 for a hot dog. When they don't, we're in trouble."
Festival officials said survey collectors busied themselves during the eight-day run, and gathered opinions and suggestions from tourists and local residents. Data from surveys, ticket sales and vendors will be compiled and discussed before decisions are made about next year's event.
But data, changes and decisions meant little to many of those who attended the festivities.
"The best part was we were here with all of our kids, grandkids, nieces and nephews. The whole family," said Ray Minervini. "You can't beat that."
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