Vancouver’s Cherry Blossom Festival returns next month, and the organizers are bringing back one of the most celebrated spring events in the city: The Big Picnic.
Every year, dozens of Akebono cherry trees bloom around the city, bringing people far and wide together to celebrate the season. Since most of Vancouver’s 43,000 cherry trees were originally gifts from Japan, the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival was created in 2005 to express the city’s gratitude, and has been held nearly every year since.
The Big Picnic is held in honour of the festival’s blossom benefactor, Dr. David C. Lam – hence its location at David Lam Park. What’s more, the event is inspired by the Japanese tradition of hanami, which literally translates to “cherry blossom viewing.”
This year, the event will begin with a special tree dedication ceremony featuring representatives from the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh nations, as well as from the Japanese Consulate. And then, the festivities will commence.
Relax under cherry blossoms (hopefully under the sun), take part in a variety of interactive art workshops and activities, and enjoy live performances on the Cherry Jam Stage.
You can stay tuned for more info and updates via the festival’s socials.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 1st from 10 am to 4 pm, Vancouver. We’ll see you there!
Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival – The Big PicnicÂ
When: Saturday, April 1st
Where: 1300 Pacific Boulevard
Cost: Free
