Cheerwine Festival in Salisbury, NC

You’ll find Cheerwine fans all across the country - but nowhere celebrates the iconic cherry soda quite like its hometown of Salisbury. Each spring, tens of thousands gather in Downtown Salisbury for the annual Cheerwine Festival, a lively street festival honoring Rowan County’s most legendary original.

What began as a 100th anniversary celebration in 2017 has grown into one of North Carolina’s most anticipated spring festivals, drawing more than 60,000 attendees each year.

What to Expect at Cheerwine Festival

Downtown Salisbury transforms into a full-day celebration filled with:

• Cheerwine-inspired food and specialty menu items

• Food trucks and local vendors

• Cheerwine merchandise and memorabilia

• Craft vendors and local artisans

• A dedicated kids’ zone with rock climbing, bounce houses, games, and activities

• Two beer gardens for guests 21+

• Street performers including stilt walkers and jugglers

• Trolley tours and historic displays

• Face painting and interactive family fun

Live music takes place throughout the day on two stages, culminating in a headlining evening performance. Past headliners have included nationally recognized bands like Smash Mouth, Sister Hazel and Neon Trees.

From the first sip to the final encore, the energy is unmistakably Salisbury.

Where It Happens

The festival takes place throughout Downtown Salisbury, with streets closed to create a walkable, family-friendly atmosphere packed with entertainment, vendors, and community spirit.

Family-Friendly Fun

Cheerwine Festival is designed for all ages. Families can enjoy the kids’ activity areas, interactive entertainment, and live performances, while adults can explore craft vendors and beer gardens.

Whether you grew up with Cheerwine or are discovering it for the first time, the festival offers something for everyone.

When Is Cheerwine Festival?

Cheerwine Festival is held each May in Downtown Salisbury. Exact dates and schedules are announced annually.

Make It a Weekend Getaway

Many visitors choose to enhance their Cheerwine Festival experience with an overnight stay in Rowan County. By booking lodging through the Cheerwine Festival Stay & Play Package, guests receive a VISA e-Gift Card equal to 50% of their stay, making it easy to turn the festival into a full spring weekend getaway.

Staying overnight also gives visitors time to explore Downtown Salisbury’s dining, shopping, and attractions before or after the festival, creating a relaxed and well-rounded Rowan County experience.

Join us this spring in Rowan County to celebrate the one and only Cheerwine - a hometown original with a fanbase that stretches far beyond the Carolinas.

Click the image below to check out our Instagram Reel to catch a glimpse

of what to expect at Cheerwine Festival!