The event, the McDonalds Young Cherry Blossom Long Lazy Lunch, is one of the most prestigious on the Hilltops calendar and will be held on Sunday September 22.
Long term National Cherry Festival sponsors, McDonalds Young have elected to champion this event and have secured 2019 naming rights.
This is the sixth consecutive mystery long lazy lunch that has been staged in the region and once again there is wide interest from people living in major centres including Sydney, Canberra, Goulburn and the Southern Highlands. Visitors appreciate the authentic country experience and the chance to meet the people who grow the cherries.
Long trestle tables, exceptional Hilltops food and wines and the rustic charm of one of Young’s most picturesque orchards is an enticing prospect also embraced by locals.
Entertainment will be provided by the Young Regional School of Music’s “Red Cherry Jazz”.
The McDonalds Young Cherry Blossom Long Lazy Lunch is organised by the National Cherry Festival committee and is a forerunner to the December festival.
Traditionally the entrants in the Cherry King and Queen competition are introduced to the public at the lunch. This year’s entrants, Laura Ower, David Munnerley, Brianah Griffin, Tasman Coulter and Kate Cruickshank will attend with their supporters.
The event also pays tribute to the pioneers who migrated to Young from Croatia and played an important role in developing the cherry industry.
The menu will feature a gourmet spread designed to recognise Croatia’s Dalmatian coast where many of the Hilltops cherry industry pioneers originated.
Chefs will use the best of local produce to create a distinctive menu. There will be grazing platters all sourced from local ingredients.
The meal will culminate with homemade cherry pies, fresh cream and a rich cherry sauce.
On the day patrons will be bussed from the Young Visitor Information Centre to the mystery location at 11:30am and will return to the Visitor Information Centre at 3pm.
For those who would like to take part in this unique al fresco experience there are still some tickets available at Young Visitor Information Centre or on Eventbrite. Be quick to ensure your place.