In the spirit of the famous cherry tree myth, Alexandria celebrates George Washington’s historic presence in his adopted hometown by inviting restaurants to participate in this culinary contest…with your customers as the judges! This popular annual event is designed to generate buzz for Alexandria restaurants, boost customer traffic, and keep George Washington's memory alive in his hometown. In the words of one restaurant participant, "The GW Cherry Challenge is fun, fun, fun. Our customers love it!"

There is no fee for participation.

All you need to do is create and serve one or more menu items that include CHERRIES. You may use fresh cherries, dried cherries, canned cherries…whatever form you desire. Categories are Beverage, Appetizer, Entree, and Dessert. You will feature your creation(s) from January 27 through February 10, 2025.

The 2025 responses will be collected virtually via a QR Code:

  • We will provide you with a ballot to print out and include in your carry-out/delivery packages, or

  • You can post one ballot on your table or however you provide your menus to customers.

We are collecting responses via Survey Monkey, so at the end of the contest, we’ll tally the ballots. Make sure at least 20 customers vote on an item to ensure a full score.

Please register here to ensure appropriate promotion: https://bit.ly/2025GWCherryChallenge
or email Kristen.Eastlick@gmail.com.

ALL participating restaurants will be:

  • Featured on the George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee’s (GWBCC) website which is visited by thousands and be promoted via social media outreach

  • Included in publicity for our events

WINNERS in each category will receive the following:

  • Your name and menu item will be featured on the GWBCC website and social media channels

  • Winning entries will be announced from the parade stand before the 2025 GW Birthday Parade on Saturday, February 15, 2025

  • You will be invited to march as in the 2025 GW Birthday Parade (signage to be provided)

  • You will receive a handsome certificate that can be displayed at your restaurant

We look forward to your involvement in this exciting free opportunity! We need your commitment by January 20, 2025, to ensure that your restaurant is included in the publicity.