Planning a summer trip to California and looking for something the whole family will love? Gilroy Gardens Family Theme Park transforms every June into a cherry-filled celebration that draws guests from across the state. Learn more below from Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn, one of the top hotels in Gilroy, and your perfect home base for Cherry Jubilee in Gilroy Gardens.
What Is the Cherry Jubilee at Gilroy Gardens?
This festival runs from June 5 through July 5, 2026, elevating the theme park’s usual celebration of food, entertainment, and family fun. This beloved event is one of the most anticipated Gilroy Gardens seasonal events of the year. It draws families from across the Bay Area and beyond with a packed lineup of flavors and activities.
The festival earned the IAAPA Brass Ring award for Best New Food and Beverage Event, which celebrates innovation and impact in the global attractions industry. That recognition speaks to how seriously the park takes the guest experience. This occasion is more than just a theme park visit; it’s a full-scale celebration of summertime fun and flavor.
Cherry-Inspired Food You Won’t Want To Miss
One of the biggest draws of the festival is the incredible spread. Guests could choose from 50-plus cherry-inspired dishes, which included 30 brand-new recipes for 2026.
Here are some standout items to try at Cherry Jubilee in Gilroy Gardens:
- Uncle John’s Grill: Grilled brie topped with cherry sauce and spicy teriyaki skewers with cherry glaze
- Lakeside Smokehouse: Turkey legs with cherry barbecue sauce
- San Juan Bar & Grill: Seasoned fries with cherry flavors and gourmet burgers topped with Kickin’ Cherry BBQ sauce
Grab a Very Cherry Tasting Card to sample six cherry-themed delicacies as you explore the park. It’s the ultimate way to taste your way through the festival.
Gilroy Gardens Cherry Jubilee Activities for the Whole Family
Gilroy Gardens Cherry Jubilee entertainment goes well beyond food, with something for every age group. From toddlers to grandparents, the Cherry Jubilee in Gilroy Gardens keeps everyone entertained the moment they arrive.
These are some of the can’t-miss experiences at the festival:
- CherryDome challenges: Compete in family relay races like the Crimson Tartathlon or test your pie-eating skills in the Crust Busters contest.
- Barry’s Roller Rink: Lace up your skates and enjoy retro-inspired fun at the 5,000-square-foot outdoor roller rink.
- “Bing, Bing! Cherrayy!” Dance Party: Learn the Cherry Jubilee dance moves and sing along with Barry the Barker during this interactive celebration.
You can also check out “Which Cherry Are You?” to find your cherry personality match. The Royal Tioga Market offers cherry-themed souvenirs and gifts to take home.
What To Do at Gilroy Gardens Beyond the Festival
This event rivals the top California theme park spring festivals that are so popular with visitors. After all, Cherry Jubilee sits inside a park packed with year-round rides and attractions. If you are looking for other things to do at Gilroy Gardens beyond seasonal celebrations, you might try rides like the Quicksilver Express Mine Coaster, Timber Twister, and the historic Illions Supreme Carousel.
This park is one of the top family-friendly attractions in Gilroy, CA, thanks to its variety. It is even home to world-famous Circus Trees and more than 10,000 trees throughout the grounds.
Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn: Your Cherry Jubilee Basecamp
Cherry Jubilee in Gilroy Gardens is one of the most exciting California theme park festivals for families, and Best Western Plus Forest Park Inn is just steps away from all that guaranteed fun. Call us at (408) 848-5144 to book your stay and plan an unforgettable trip to Gilroy, CA.