06/28/2026
Happy National Rainier Cherry Day β celebrated today, June 28, by the people who know this fruit best: Washington growers. π
Developed by a WSU researcher, this extraordinary cherry has a sweetness and flavor that makes them worth every extra mile a grower puts in.
But that makes this number all the more painful: birds eat almost one-third of the crop every season.
One-third of a fruit that has to be hand-picked to avoid bruising, laid out over reflective foil to develop its color, and tended with a level of care that most crops never see.
Rainier growers fight for every piece of this fruit. Protecting that crop is exactly what we show up for.
WSU Tree Fruit / Washington State University
Washington State Tree Fruit Association
What's the secret behind our state's juicy Rainier cherries? Simple: the hard work and dedication of our orchards' farmers and workers who ensure, year after year, that these golden orbs remain a staple of our communities and economy. π§βπΎ π
It's no small feat.
Firstly, Rainier cherries are not so easy to grow. Due to their delicate skin, they bruise easily and must be carefully hand picked. And because of their vulnerabilities to weather, temperature, and predators, growers have to take strong protective measures, including nets and windscreens.
Then, there's the post-picking, cooling process to ensure freshness, before delicate sorting and handling. Finally, whether by truck or other transportation method, the fruit needs to stay refrigerated until reaching your local stores and markets.
It's a time-consuming, painstaking, and costly endeavor. But thanks to our orchard stewards, it results in a taste cherry-lovers around the world look forward to year after year.
Show your support by grabbing a bag today. Happy National Rainier Cherry Day!