Alexandria's Cherry Challenge Features Contactless Voting In 2022

ALEXANDRIA, VA — The George Washington birthday month celebration in Alexandria wouldn't be complete without a tasty component. The Cherry Challenge will return from Feb. 1 to 15, featuring cherry-centric dishes at participating Alexandria restaurants.

The Cherry Challenge kicks off festivities planned by the city's George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee in February. In the spirit of the George Washington cherry tree legend, each participating restaurant has created a cherry appetizer, entrée, beverage or dessert. Diners can try the cherry dishes at participating restaurants and will vote to determine the best dishes.

"This unique event helps generate buzz for Alexandria restaurants, encourages chefs to get creative, and boosts customer traffic," said Kristen Eastlick, a member of the George Washington Birthday Celebration Committee and chair of the Cherry Challenge event. "The #GWCherryChallenge lets us offer a tasteful event that keeps George Washington's memory alive in his hometown."

Over 20 restaurants are expected to participate. Restaurants confirmed so far include Alexandria Pastry Company, Bastille Brasserie & Bar, Cafe 1823, Café 44, Chadwicks, Cheestique Del Ray and Shirlington, Dishes of India, Lori's Table, Los Cuates, Murphy's Irish Pub, RT's Restaurant, Sonoma Cellar, The Light Horse, Vaso's Mediterranean Bistro, Vola's Hi-Tide Lounge and Whiskey & Oyster.

While diners can get their cherry dishes for dine-in or takeout, voting will be contactless. Diners will receive QR codes to vote electronically for their favorite cherry entries. Dishes will be rated from one to three cherries based on three criteria: taste, presentation, and creativity. Each ballot can receive a maximum score of nine. Average point totals will be calculated for each dish, and the highest averages in the taste, presentation, and creativity categories will win.

Winners will be announced on the George Washington Birthday Parade day, Feb. 21. Diners are encouraged to share their photos of cherry dishes on Twitter with hashtag #GWCherryChallenge or on the George Washington Birthday Celebration’s Facebook page.

The volunteer committee plans annual events to celebrate George Washington, the first president and an Alexandria resident. Other major events include the George Washington Birthday Parade, Virtual Birthnight Banquet & Ball, Washington Symposium, George Washington Birthday Gala and more. For more information, visit www.washingtonbirthday.com.

SEE ALSO: George Washington Birthday Parade, Other Events Planned In 2022