Chokecherry reigns supreme in Lewistown

Published: July 20, 2008

The puckery little berry that grows wild in Montana reigns supreme in downtown Lewistown on Saturday, Sept. 6, during the 19th annual Montana Chokecherry Festival, sponsored by the Lewistown Area Chamber of Commerce.

Festivities begin with the Kiwanis Club breakfast, featuring pancakes served with, what else - chokecherry syrup! A full day of fun for all ages follows with everything from Chokecherry pit-spitting and culinary contests, to art and crafts (over 160 booths in 2007), a 5k and one-mile run/walk, children's activities, live entertainment and a classic car show. Vendor booths are open from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.. The Chokecherry Stomp dance, 7 p.m.-midnight at the Trade Center, caps the day's events.

New this year is the Chokecherry Art Show and Auction. Original works by Dorothy Reid, Mary Miller, Terry Wichman, Cheryl Kitchenmaster, Delma Evans, Audrey Eckhardt, Crystal Mattson, Kelly Ann Terry, Jean Rogan, Kathy Gaines and Karen Kleinsasser will be on display at various locations throughout the community through Sept. 5, and auctioned during the festival.

The chokecherry is a deciduous shrub, native to North America, that grows along water and on hillsides. The plants typically bloom in July and the fruit begins to ripen in August. The reddish fruits are used to make jellies, jams, wine and other culinary delights.

For further information call 406-535-5436 or visit www.lewistownchamber.com.