This small WA city bakes ‘world’s largest cherry pie’ every Fourth of July
Many cities in the United States are named after U.S. presidents, but only one spells out a president’s full name when combined with a state name.
George, Washington, has a patriotic spirit that’s evident in its foundation, events and traditions.
The town was dedicated on Independence Day in 1957.
Each year, George residents celebrate the birth of their community — and the United States — with a massive celebration.
The annual Fourth of July party features an equally massive dessert, described by locals as the “world’s largest cherry pie.”
“If you believe that something is impossible, please do not interfere with those who are doing it,” reads the motto at George Community Hall.
Here’s what to know before you visit George:
Washington city sets record for world’s largest cherry pie
When the town of George was dedicated on July 4, 1957, residents celebrated by baking a giant cherry pie.
Locals picked cherry pie because it was a favorite dish at the Founding Father’s home in Mount Vernon, Virginia.
The enormous fruit-filled pastry weighed half a ton and had to be baked in a specially-built, jumbo-sized brick Dutch oven.
The pie needed to bake for three hours and cool for four.
It’s become an annual tradition ever since.
In 2012, George residents filled a square pan measuring 8 feet by 8 feet with 75 gallons of sugary pie filling. The dessert, which served more than 1,500 people, set a record for the world’s biggest cherry pie, according to the World Records Academy.
Is George known for any other giant desserts?
In George, Presidents’ Day weekend is marked with the baking of a giant cake, in honor of Washington’s birthday on Feb. 22.
Who makes the massive baked goods? The Georgettes, an offshoot of the George Community Hall nonprofit organization, craft the treats.
The long-standing group is integral to many of George’s events and activities.
How big is Fourth of July celebration in George?
George’s annual Fourth of July celebration has grown considerably since 1957, drawing about 5,000 people annually, despite the town’s population of about 800.
In 2026, Independence Day festivities will kick off on Saturday, July 4 with a Cherry Bomb Run, a two-mile fun run for all ages.
The fun is followed by a pancake breakfast, parade, music, vendors, fireworks and more.
This year’s celebration also features an interactive American History Mobile Museum and a cherry pit spitting contest. Attendees can also sample the giant cherry pie for free, although a $1 donation is requested.
Where are George Washington references in George?
References to the nation’s first president can be found throughout the city of George.
Several city streets are named after cherry tree varieties, in a nod to the apocryphal tale about a young George Washington confessing to chopping down a cherry tree by saying “I cannot tell a lie.”
Additionally, a large bust of the Founding Father — a replica of one in Washington, D.C. — can be found near the entrance to the city.
It sits outside Shree’s Truck Stop and Gas Station, a popular stopping point for travelers.
Near Shree’s, there is a coffee stand and a cannabis dispensary.
Further into town, there are numerous highly-rated restaurants, including Mi Lindo Guanajuato and Scalehouse Cafe.
How close is George to The Gorge Amphitheatre, tourist attractions?
George is six miles east of renowned outdoor venue The Gorge Amphitheatre.
The venue has a full summer lineup in 2026 including annual festivals Beyond Wonderland and Bass Canyon, plus concerts by Chris Stapleton, Dave Matthews Band and other big names.
Not far from George is some fan-favorite artwork.
A series of life-size horse sculptures created by David Govedare overlook the Columbia River Gorge at the Wild Horses Monument. Titled “Grandfather Cuts Loose the Ponies,” the 200-foot line of charging steeds symbolizes the Great Spirit turning loose a herd of wild horses above Wanapum Lake, according to Grant County.
A short hike will take you to the steel sculpture, though it can get a bit steep and hiking sticks are recommended.
How can I visit George?
To reach George, take Exit 149 on Interstate 90.
After you stop, you can get back on the road to The Gorge, toward Seattle or elsewhere in Washington state.
How much does it cost to visit George?
Not only is George less than 90 minutes from Tri-Cities, but it’s also a great place to gas up.
Shree’s has many food options and is considered a necessary stop for many travelers.
As of Wednesday, June 24, the cost of a regular gallon of gas at Shree’s is $4.72.
Popular events in George, including the Fourth of July celebration and the bluegrass music festival in September, are free to attend.
This article contains information from a previous story originally published in June 2023.
This story was originally published June 27, 2026 at 5:00 AM with the headline "This small WA city bakes ‘world’s largest cherry pie’ every Fourth of July."