The Tillamook County Creamery Association is celebrating National Cheddar Day in a big way this year, by giving away a boatload of cheese to one lucky winner. The grand prize winner will receive a whopping 1,909 pounds of Tillamook cheese, delivered on a revamped Morning Star schooner, reminiscent of the vessel that first brought Tillamook’s dairy bounty to Portland in 1909.
The giveaway is part of the celebration of National Cheddar Day on February 13, the same day the Tillamook cooperative was formed 116 years ago. Cheddar lovers can enter to win the boatload of cheese, with one winner being chosen randomly after the giveaway closes on February 20. Additionally, the first 15,000 entrants will receive a free cheese coupon worth up to $6.
While the boatload of cheese totals 1,909 pounds, the actual delivery will consist of 100 pounds of a mix of Tillamook’s cheese varieties and an additional 1,809 pounds worth of Tillamook cheese products in the form of coupons. Tillamook notes that it would be challenging to consume 1,909 pounds of cheese before it expires, hence the distribution of cheese products in coupon form.
Kate Boltin, executive vice president of marketing at the Tillamook County Creamery Association, emphasized the significance of February 13 in Tillamook’s history, as the date when the founding farmers established the cooperative and committed to creating quality dairy products. The Morning Star schooner symbolizes this commitment, with its icon featured on every Tillamook product.
The history of the Morning Star dates back to the 1800s when Tillamook dairy farmers sought a way to transport their cheese and butter to Portland. Despite facing setbacks with shipwrecks of previous vessels, the farmers persevered and built the Morning Star of Tillamook, which successfully delivered the county’s dairy products to Portland. This vessel became a symbol of Tillamook’s dedication to dairy and history.
Tillamook’s commitment to quality ingredients and premium cheddar has been unwavering over the years, with the Morning Star logo prominently displayed on their packaging. The brand’s modern dairy creations have garnered recognition, including a cheddar cheese that was named the best cheddar in the world at the World Cheese Awards.
As a Certified B Corp, the Tillamook County Creamery Association operates production facilities in Tillamook and Boardman, Oregon, employing over 1,100 individuals. The Tillamook Creamery is a popular tourist attraction on the Oregon Coast, welcoming more than one million visitors annually. Visitors can even see a full-size replica of the Morning Star on-site, although it’s not filled with cheese like the giveaway boatload.
