Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival is on: Here's what to know
The last weekend of March is the kickoff for the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival, with a big picnic Saturday in slightly soggy David Lam Park.
That's the beginning of a month-long celebration of the blooms and the culture of Japan, which donated the original cherry trees that are now ubiquitous across the city.
Here's what's ahead:
David Lam Park: Sunday, March 30, 6:30-10 p.m.
The annual tradition returns as the whole of the park at 1300 Pacific Blvd. is illuminated to create a 'magical promenade' through the cherry blossoms. There are performers, food trucks and plenty of photo ops.
Bentall Centre: Saturday, April 5, 2-9 p.m.
A one-day party in downtown Vancouver at the centre's courtyard on Dunsmuir. Public Disco provides the vibe for this free, all-ages celebration with DJs spinning dance music, a pop-up bar with a site-wide permit, performances, kids' activities and a chance to make social connections.
VanDusen Botanical Garden: Saturday and Sunday, April 12-13
The garden at 5251 Oak St. is transformed into a celebration of Japanese culture: food, drink, performances, music, art and games. The park will host vendors and exhibitors offering local Japanese food, crafts and business ventures. Expect taiko drumming, theatrical performance and woodworking demos, among others. Most of the event is held outdoors with some vendors, a tea ceremony and other experiences inside. Doors open at 10 a.m. each day and the event runs through the afternoon.
There are guided tours (registration required) throughout the festival led by local experts showing off cherry trees and all the others in Vancouver's urban ecosystem. Or you can go the festival website and get information on several recommended self-guided tours across the city from UBC to Stanley Park to Queen E Park.
Jim Deva Park: Sunday, April 6, 1-3:30 p.m.
The festival popped up in Yaletown in late March, and another is planned in the West End next Sunday. It features a portable kiosk, theatre and meeting space to bring people together for performances, activities and information about the Cherry Blossom Festival.
This community joyride was unfortunately cancelled in 2024 due to unforeseen circumstances, but is expected back this spring. Go the festival website for details coming soon.
Until June 1
Enter to be represented at the upcoming haiku exhibition. The top poems in six categories (Vancouver, B.C., Canada, U.S., international and youth) will be featured with readings and publication in the Canadian haiku newsletter and on the festival website. An online form for entries is here.
For more information on future events, go to vcbf.ca.
jruttle@postmedia.com
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