Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival Is On Now- Here’s What To Know
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For Canadian nature enthusiasts who are venturing to Vancouver this spring, the city’s annual Cherry Blossom Festival may be worth a visit. The festival officially started on March 24, and runs until April 17 at the VanDusen Botanical Garden. This year marks the tenth anniversary of the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival, which is presented by the Vancouver Board of Parks & Recreation.
In honour of its big milestone, the yearly floral festival is offering a Birthday Blossoms Tree Planting Program. Visitors who are coveting their own cherry blossom tree can purchase an ornamental tree to display in their private garden at home.
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Meanwhile, guests who want to explore the breathtaking scenery can enjoy a Tree Talk & Walk, which features a scheduled stroll around the surrounding key sights and a closer glimpse at the cherry blossoms.
The Walk & Walk sessions are led by various tour guides who have knowledge of the history of these trees, which were first planted in 1977. According to the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival, the trees were initially planted to celebrate the centennial anniversary of Canada’s first generation of Japanese immigrants.
If you wish to soak up Japanese culture while admiring the blossoms, the Sakura Days Japan Fair takes place on April 9 and 10. The fair features a number of traditional activities, including a tea ceremony, crafts workshops, origami and cooking demonstrations. Meanwhile, foodies can sample authentic Japanese food or sip on sake, as they take in the cultural experience.
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As part of the festivities, the free Blossom Barge promises to take cherry blossom lovers on a voyage. On April 16 and 17, the Barge is set to wrap up the festival, by taking attendees on a short cruise from Vancouver’s False Creek to Crab Park. The boat tour claims to offer a peek at the 40 cherry blossom trees, along with performances from the Vancouver Metropolitan Orchestra and teenage yoyo prodigy Harrison Lee.