An annual community festival took over Cherry Park in Kitchener on Saturday. People from across the neighbourhood and behind gathered for the free event’s 15-year anniversary, where the fruit-themed treats and snacks were just the cherry on top. Aless Martellacci, the master of ceremonies at Cherry Fest, detailed the event’s history. “It’s put on by the Cherry Park Neighborhood Association. It’s been going since 2007,” she said. “I think this is our 15th year. We did lose a few years to Covid.” Attendees could enjoy live music, wrestling matches, and other activities around the park. Vendors for the cherry treats were not alone, with food trucks also available for residents who wanted a different taste. Families were not left out, as kids could play at a designated children’s area or go on a handful of different amusement park rides. With the community coming together annually, Martellacci explained how the event wouldn’t be possible without the shared generosity. “We have so many volunteers this year, I think we have 110 volunteers. We couldn’t do it without them. It very much is a family driven community events. We have volunteers of all ages, from teenagers all the way up to their 80s, you know, and it’s so nice to see the community come together this way,” Martellaci said. Martellaci added that any money made from the event goes back into the community, through the Cherry Park Neighbourhood Association. Organizers of the event are already looking forward to 2027, with the 16th annual instalment slated for next summer.
