What is International Cherry Pit Spitting Day?

International Cherry Pit Spitting Day is held every year on the first Saturday of July and is celebrated worldwide. It honors the quirky sport of cherry pit spitting, where participants compete to see who can spit a cherry pit the farthest. The event blends humor, skill, and tradition into a summer celebration full of laughter and good-natured rivalry.

The idea began in 1974 in Michigan, where Herb Teichman organized the first cherry pit spitting contest at Tree-Mendus Fruit Farm. What started as a fun side attraction quickly turned into a popular competition. The event gained international attention and inspired similar contests around the world.

Cherry pit spitting may sound silly, but it has grown into a symbol of summer fun, rural community, and celebration of harvest season. Today, people of all ages and backgrounds take part in this light-hearted competition, making it a beloved summer tradition.

History and Origin

The first cherry pit spitting contest was held in Eau Claire, Michigan, as a promotion for the local cherry harvest. Herb Teichman wanted something fun to draw attention to the region’s fruit farms. His idea struck a chord. Soon, the contest became an annual championship that drew national and international competitors.

One of the most memorable records was set in 2004, when Brian “Young Gun” Krause launched a pit more than 93 feet. The competition always had categories for children, women, and men, making it accessible to everyone. While the original farm closed in 2019, the event continues to inspire similar contests in places like Canada, Germany, and Australia.

The tradition lives on not just through organized events, but also through backyard contests and family gatherings every first Saturday of July.

Who participates in International Cherry Pit Spitting Day?

• Fruit lovers: People who enjoy cherries take part in the fun and often show up just to celebrate the fruit itself.
• Families: Parents and children enjoy this unique competition together during picnics or festivals.
• Community organizers: Local clubs and event planners set up cherry-themed events to attract visitors and promote local culture.
• Tourists: Visitors from outside the region often attend cherry festivals and try their luck at spitting for distance.
• Competitive spitters: Serious competitors train, measure, and aim for personal bests or even world records.

Slogans and Themes

The day is full of slogans that reflect the playful tone of the event. Popular phrases include “Let the pits fly,” “Spit happens,” and “Fired up for fruit.” Themes revolve around fun, friendly competition, community bonding, and celebration of cherry season. It’s not about winning but about participating in a tradition that brings people together.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors

• Red: Represents ripe cherries and summer heat.
• Green: Stands for cherry trees and freshness.
• White: Symbolizes simplicity and the wholesome nature of the event.

Symbols

• Cherries: The fruit at the center of it all.
• Pits: The unique and surprising focus of the competition.
• Measuring tape: Used to determine distances, highlighting the competitive side.

Patterns

• Cherry prints: Often found on tablecloths, decorations, and clothing.
• Spiral arcs: Suggest the flying path of a spit pit.
• Checkered picnic designs: Set the tone for the relaxed outdoor atmosphere.

Most Used Hashtags

• #CherryPitSpittingDay
• #LetThePitsFly
• #SpitForDistance
• #CherryFest
• #SummerTraditions

How do you celebrate International Cherry Pit Spitting Day?

• Host a backyard contest: Gather some friends and a bowl of cherries and see who spits the farthest.
• Visit a cherry festival: Join an organized event with live contests, food stands, and games.
• Eat cherry treats: Bake pies, eat fresh cherries, or try cherry juice and jam.
• Learn about cherry farming: Support a local orchard or read about how cherries are grown and harvested.
• Share your moment online: Post photos or videos of your pit spitting skills and summer fun.

Why is International Cherry Pit Spitting Day important?

This day may be lighthearted, but it plays an important role in celebrating community and tradition. It reminds us of the joy in simple things and the value of shared experiences. It also highlights the connection between agriculture and culture, especially in rural areas where fruit farming is part of everyday life. By coming together to spit cherry pits, people all over the world celebrate creativity, laughter, and the joy of summer.