Sakura Matsuri: Cherry Blossom Festival Featured in
The Japanese believe that the cherry blossom symbolizes the beauty and frailty of life. New York City annually celebrates Japanese culture in spring when the cherry blossom trees are in full bloom. The Sakura Matsuri festival is a weekend-long event that takes place at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. Aside from admiring the beautiful white and pink cherry blossoms, the visitors can participate in various workshops and visit the puzzle plaza as well as enjoy samurai sword master performances, Japanese dances, taiko drumming, manga artists, and much much more.
Practical info
When is the annual springtime cherry blossom festival held in New York?
The Sakura Matsuri festival takes place in late April or early May when cherry blossom trees are in full bloom. In 2023, the festival is scheduled for the weekend of April 29th and 30th. Before planning a trip, confirm dates and details by visiting the official Sakura Matsuri website. Show more
What is the location of the annual Sakura Matsuri festival in New York?
The annual Sakura Matsuri festival is hosted at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden in NYC. The 50-acre garden showcases over 14 distinct gardens featuring diverse plants. At the festival, visitors can delight in the beauty of the cherry blossoms while enjoying cultural performances and workshops. No matter the entrance, public transportation is plentiful making the garden easily accessible. Show more
What cultural workshops are available during the Sakura Matsuri festival?
Immersive experiences abound during the Sakura Matsuri festival with various Japanese workshops available. Visitors can take part in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, origami folds, and even Kimono dressing. Other festival highlights include live music, dance performances, cosplay demos, martial arts presentations, and cooking sessions, ensuring there is a vibrant mix of attractions available for all ages. Show more
How long does the annual Sakura Matsuri festival usually take place?
Typically, the annual Sakura Matsuri festival takes place over a weekend, during the last weekend of April or the first weekend of May. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on both days, visitors are welcome to come and go as they please. To avoid crowds and participate in several activities and performances, it is best to arrive early. The garden, open year-round, also offers stunning cherry blossom views outside of the festival’s dates. Show more
Do food vendors offer unique or authentic Japanese cuisine during the Sakura Matsuri festival?
The Sakura Matsuri festival offers visitors various traditional Japanese food options. Food vendors offer an array of options, including takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and yakitori for visitors to discover Japanese street food and sweets, including mochi and shaved ice. Visitors can enjoy trying different kinds of sake while learning about the brewing process, speaking with experts. From light bites to hearty meals, there are a range of indulgences visitors can enjoy at the festival. Show more
