If you love cider—or are just cider-curious—you should expect a bumper crop of events to explore Michigan’s cider scene. We sat down with Paula Englin, Executive Director of the Michigan Cider Association (MCA), on the Life In Michigan podcast to talk about the state of cider in Michigan and the can’t-miss events that celebrate this dynamic, homegrown industry.
Before we jump into the events, here are a few fun Michigan Apple Facts:
- Michigan hosts the world’s largest cider competition. GLINTCAP (Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition) is not only huge—it’s global, drawing entries from Russia, Japan, Chile, and more.
- Over 80% of ingredients used by Michigan cideries are grown right here in-state. Talk about drinking local!
- Michigan has more certified cideries than any other state. That’s why it’s called the Great Cider State.
- Fruit Ridge near Grand Rapids is one of the top apple-producing regions in the world. Fruit Ridge apples get around—you’ve probably munched on one without even knowing it.
Michigan Cider Events to Add to Your Calendar
Cider Week GR (May 9–17, 2025)
Grand Rapids goes all-in on cider every spring, and this year is no exception. Cider Week GR features nine days of cider-themed dinners, tastings, pairings, and tap takeovers throughout the city. From casual board game nights at House Rules to elegant cider pairings at Littlebird, this week celebrates both Michigan-made and international ciders.
It all wraps up with…
The Michigan Cider Festival (May 17, 2025)
Cap off Cider Week at this one-day downtown Grand Rapids bash, the Michigan Cider Festival. Expect live music, food trucks, and over 40–50 Michigan hard ciders on tap. If you’re new to cider, this is the perfect crash course. And if you’re a seasoned fan, you’ll find plenty of new favorites to sip.
GLINTCAP – Great Lakes International Cider & Perry Competition (May 14–17, 2025)
The world’s largest cider competition happens right here in Michigan. Hosted annually in Grand Rapids, GLINTCAP draws cider entries from across the globe—including Russia, Japan, Canada, Chile, and beyond. It’s a behind-the-scenes showcase of the art, science, and passion behind great cider.
While judging is closed to the public, volunteer opportunities—especially as stewards—offer a rare, up-close experience. First-time steward and cider enthusiast Jerry Morgan called it a transformative experience.
“You get to witness judges analyze cider against style standards—and for me, it gave me language to describe what I love. It made me feel more informed, more confident, and more connected to what I was drinking,” he said.
Stewards are responsible for preparing and presenting cider samples to judges—ensuring everything remains anonymous and meets quality standards. For Jerry, who isn’t a cider producer but loves the craft, the community made all the difference. “I’m not in the industry—I just love cider. But everyone at GLINTCAP was so warm and welcoming. By lunchtime, I had made friends,” he shared.
In addition to judging and stewarding, GLINTCAP 2025 will host Michigan’s first in-person Certified Pommelier exam—a major milestone for cider education and excellence in the state. (More about Pommeliers later in this article.)
Michigan Apple Festival (September 2025 – Sparta, MI)
Set in the heart of Michigan’s Fruit Ridge—one of the nation’s premier apple-growing regions—the Michigan Apple Festival combines family-friendly fun with serious cider appreciation. Last year, the MCA poured 11 different ciders made from apples grown within an hour of Sparta. There’s also music, apple peeling contests, and plenty of chances to learn (and taste!) what makes Michigan apples and cider so special.
Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival (November 2025)
This massive event is a sensory overload in the best possible way. You’ll find beer, wine, spirits—and yes, plenty of cider—alongside culinary creations from top Michigan chefs at the GR International Wine, Beer & Food Festival. Look for the Michigan Cider Association’s signature draft trailer pouring creative and colorful ciders like Painted Turtle’s Cranberry Craze and Odd Brothers’ bright green Habitual.
More Than a Drink: Cider, Tourism & Collaboration
Beyond the events, Michigan cider is making waves in tourism and cross-industry collaboration. Cideries are working with local cheese shops (like The Cheese Lady in Grand Rapids), restaurants, mixologists, and even distilleries to create new experiences.
You’ll also find more cider makers involved in agri-tourism—think orchards, corn mazes, donuts, and U-pick apple adventures. The MCA’s online cider map is a great tool for plotting your next road trip.
Whether you’re seeking new flavors, unforgettable festivals, or the perfect bottle to share, Michigan’s cider scene offers something for everyone. And if your cider adventure started off years ago with a mega-brand syrupy sweet cider that left you thinking cider is not for you, you might want to give Michigan ciders a try.
As Paula Englin said, “I always say—have you had a bad cheeseburger? Yeah? But you still eat cheeseburgers, right? It’s the same with cider. Just because you had a bad one once doesn’t mean you won’t find one you love.”
So go ahead—mark your calendars, grab your friends, and discover why Michigan is the Great Cider State. Visit michigancider.com for event details, the Michigan cider map, and information on becoming a Certified Cider Guide or Pommelier.
🍎 How to Become a Pommelier
A cider expert? Yes, it’s a thing and Michigan is quickly becoming a hub.
What’s a Pommelier?
Think sommelier, but for cider. Certified Pommeliers are trained to evaluate cider using sight, smell, and taste—understanding everything from apple varieties to fermentation methods. Fun fact: Pomme is French for “Apple”. In English, Pomme refers to a type of fruit, including apples, pears, and quince.
Two Levels of Certification
- Level 1: Certified Cider Guide – Great for tasting room staff or cider fans. Online resources make it beginner-friendly.
- Level 2: Certified Pommelier – Includes a rigorous in-person exam with sensory analysis and theory.
Why It Matters
Pommeliers help elevate cider culture by educating consumers, improving service in cideries, and raising the profile of craft cider.
Michigan’s Momentum
- Only two Certified Pommeliers are in Michigan today
- A dedicated group of cider pros is actively studying to change that
- GLINTCAP 2025 will host Michigan’s first in-person Certified Pommelier exam
Want to Start?
Visit ciderassociation.org for more information. Bonus: Michigan Cider Association board members are eager to mentor newcomers!
Pictures
We have more photos in our galleries!
- 2024 Michigan Cider Fest
- 2023 Grand Rapids International Wine, Beer & Food Festival
- 2023 Michigan Hard Cider Tour
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