The expanded Northwest Cherry Festival will be starting in The Dalles. The festival will now have a broader range of events to encompass the Friday through Sunday period rather than just Saturday. The Dalles Area Chamber of Commerce CEO Lisa Farquharson feels there is a renewed excitement for the festival. The festival gets off to an early start Tuesday evening with the annual lip sync contest featuring local groups competing to benefit local charities, starting at 7 p.m. at The Dalles High School Auditorium. Admission is $5. The event also features the crowning of Cherry Festival royalty.