North East Fire Department Chief David Meehl told Erie News Now about the decision to use a drive-thru format again in 2021.

"We had planned for a normal festival, but rides were not available, Meehl said. I can't blame the ride companies and other Festivals are in the same boat."

For festival goers, it takes about 20 minutes to complete the drive-thru.

All of the favorite foods are available for drive-thru service, including cherry pies, sausage sandwiches and burgers.

The Porch Parade will also return on Sunday.

The Cherry Festival runs from July 13-17.

The event will run Tuesday- Friday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

All proceeds will benefit the two fire departments in North East. 

Co-Finance Chair, Mike Wilkinson  tells Erie News Now how important this event is to them, "this is our biggest fundraiser, this is how we run both our fire departments, so anything helps but, it's no where near what we would make if it was a full blown festival but, we will do what we do and charge on."