Cheerwine Festival to return May 2025

The annual festival celebrating the iconic Cheerwine soft drink is a major economic driver for Rowan County.

Crowds gather for an outdoor concert to see performers on a stage during the Cheerwine Festival.

The Cheerwine Festival has been an annual party in downtown Salisbury since 2017.

Photo via Studio 35 Photography

Get ready for a sweet announcement. The annual Cheerwine Festival, celebrating the classic southern cherry soda, returns to its hometown of Salisbury, NC on Saturday, May 17.

Pro tip: Salisbury is a short 45-minute drive north of Uptown.

Prepare to party. This beloved celebration for the 108-year-old drink will feature more than five hours of live musical entertainment from local and regional acts + Cheerwine-inspired food and drinks, family-friendly activities, and crafts.

Editor’s note: The musical lineup will be announced soon.

Large crowds gather for an outdoor street festival in downtown Salisbury.

Cheerwine Festival visitors will have ample options for food, handmade crafts, and beer vendors.

Photo via John Stamp

“There’s nothing better than seeing our community come together, and we can’t wait to celebrate with old friends and new faces while sharing the unique charm and hospitality that makes Salisbury so special,” said Joy Ritchie Harper, vice president of marketing for Cheerwine and fifth-generation founding family member.

The annual event began in 2017 to commemorate the soda’s 100th anniversary, kickstarting what’s become a major economic driver for Salisbury. The 2024 festival welcomed 100,000+ guests and generated $6.3 million for Rowan County.

“Just like Cheerwine, with its one-of-a-kind flavor that’s as bold and spirited as our Salisbury-Rowan community, the festival is a fun way to toast our rich history while giving a fizzy boost to our cultural and economic growth,” said Mayor Pro Tem, Tamara Sheffield.

Interested in being part of the party? Vendor applications are open now through Friday, Feb. 7.

More from CLTtoday
We sat down with the barbecue expert to ask about his experiences on “Top Chef,” and to ask his expert opinion on Charlotte’s food scene.
What to expect at two of Charlotte’s outdoor venues ahead of concert season.
From the return of “Phantom of the Opera” to Broadway newcomers like “Death Becomes Her,” theater lovers will experience a showstopping season in Uptown.
Plot Twist aims to be the “cool older sister” behind Trope Bookshop, offering all-day coffees, cocktails, and a hangout space in the community.
The July Fourth display will bring the Knights and the Charlotte Symphony together to honor the 250th anniversary of the United States and feature the annual WBT Sky Show.
This is your chance to score new records or longtime favorite albums at local stores participating in the music lovers’ holiday.
Rare vinyl from a historic broadcast archive is now spinning in Matthews, satisfying music lovers and just in time for Record Store Day.
The Hornets won their first postseason game since 2016, and they aren’t the only team chasing a title in the Queen City.
The Charlotte Museum of History’s new exhibition combines virtual reality and history to celebrate the nationwide commemoration of America’s independence.
New fan experiences, local cuisine, and love for golf to shine bright at Quail Hollow Club when the Truist Championship begins in May.