Cherry Blossom Festival-2

In Japan, cherry blossoms are known as sakura, a special flower that signifies a time of renewal and the cycle of life. Two weeks following the height of the bloom, the petals begin to fall.

The cherry blossom celebration includes picnics under cherry trees, an annual tradition known as hanami which translates to “watching blossoms” and can be traced back hundreds of years.

The Richmond Cherry Blossom Festival is set amongst 255 Akebono cherry blossom trees at Garry Point Park on the mouth of the Fraser River. This free one-day festival will feature traditional Japanese music and dance performances, delicious food options and fun activities.

Uzume Taiko drummers
[Uzume Taiko drummer, Vancouver; photo by Ariane Colenbrander]

ENTERTAINMENT AND ACTIVITIES

Two stages feature traditional Japanese dance, Taiko drumming and other talented musicians. You can also experience a Chado tea ceremony, Japanese calligraphy and Sakura origami demonstrations. Get into the sakura spirit! Try on a kimono and get your picture taken next to a cherry tree or peruse the Wakayama Kenjin Kai Bonsai and photo display.

And don’t forget to take a stroll through Garry Point Park and Kuno Garden. 

FOOD

The Matsuri Tent will sell traditional bento boxes and green tea from Takaya. There will also be a few Japanese-inspired food trucks and Pajo’s Fish & Chips. Come hungry!

There will be plenty of places to sit, but you may want to bring a picnic blanket and enjoy your lunch under a cherry tree.

Cherry Blossom Festival-3

GETTING THERE

Garry Point Park is located within walking distance from Steveston Village in the Southwest corner of Richmond.

By Bus: Translink’s bus #410 provides direct service to Garry Point Park.
By Bike: Ride the scenic and easy route to the festival; park your bike at the free, secure Wheel Watch bike valet.
By Car: Public parking is available in the pay lot on Chatham Street (200m from the park). The parking lot at Garry Point Park is restricted to pass holders and to those displaying an accessible parking permit.

Cherry Blossom Festival


It’s going to be a beautiful spring day, but if not, all performances and activities will be held under big heated tents. 

Note: the Festival is looking for a volunteers to help with various aspects of the event. Interested in lending a hand? Email Manisha Jassal at Manisha.Jassal@richmond.ca.

Visit the Richmond Cherry Blossom Festival online for performance schedules (TBD).

Cherry Blossom Festival-4

RICHMOND CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL

Date: April 8; 11 am to 4 pm
Location: Garry Point Park, Steveston

Admission: Free and open to the public

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