Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival 2025 in Big Island (Hawai'i), HI

The Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival, an annual celebration of Japanese and Hawaiian cultural traditions, returns to Hawai‘i’s Big Island on Saturday, February 1, 2025. Marking its 32nd year, the festival highlights the blooming of cherry trees at Church Row Park in Waimea, while offering a variety of cultural experiences for visitors and locals alike.

Activities and Highlights

The festival features a rich lineup of Japanese and Hawaiian cultural activities. Attendees can enjoy hands-on mochi pounding, sake tasting, bon dancing, traditional tea ceremonies, and food demonstrations by local chefs. Local organizations also prepare a wide array of culinary delights, affectionately referred to as "broke da’ mouth food."

For those passionate about arts and crafts, the festival features numerous vendors showcasing a delightful array of handmade items. Additionally, local musicians and dancers perform at various venues throughout Waimea, blending traditional and modern cultural elements to create captivating entertainment. A unique highlight of the event is the celebration of bonsai art, adding a touch of elegance and tranquility to the festivities.

Schedule and Program

The festival runs from 9 am to 3 pm and is centered at Church Row Park. However, activities and performances are spread across multiple venues within Waimea. A free shuttle service, provided by Roberts Hawaii, will transport attendees between locations, though walking is encouraged for those who wish to fully immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere.

Location and Accessibility

The festival takes place in Waimea, a town located in the northern part of Hawai‘i’s Big Island. Church Row Park, the heart of the event, is well-known for its historic cherry trees, which typically bloom in late January to early February. Waimea is approximately 12 miles (19.3 km) from the Kohala Coast and about 40 miles (64.4 km) from Kona International Airport, making it easily reachable by car.

This year, the festival honors the late Ruth Dick, a longtime member of the Waimea Bon-yu Kai Bonsai Club. Known for her expertise in bonsai care, Mrs. Dick contributed significantly to past festivals, providing demonstrations and serving as a “plant doctor” for visitors. Her legacy continues through her daughter, who now cares for her collection and participates in the club.

History

The Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival began over three decades ago to celebrate the planting of the first sakura tree in Waimea in 1953. This initiative reflected the blending of Japanese and Hawaiian cultures, a theme that remains central to the event.