Growing up, my family drove to Washington, DC, to kick off spring and enjoy the cherry blossom season. But it wasn’t until this year that I realized New Jersey has more cherry blossom trees than Washington, DC! There are over 5,200 trees in just one park alone.
So, as the weather gets warmer, it’s time to grab your family for a walk under these beautiful trees, enjoy God’s creation and get some fresh air! Check out these three great experiences that are perfect for enjoying the season together as a family.
Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival – Newark, NJ
With over 5,200 flowering cherry blossom trees in 18 varieties, this park is a must-visit this season! As you can imagine, they go all out with a week full of events such as bike races, 10K runs, and my favorite, their family fun day and Bloomfest! With so many activities, they have something to offer to everyone in the family, such as a mini circus, paddle boats, face painting, rock climbing, craft stations, live music, food, and more.
Essex County Family Fun Day: Saturday, April 15th – 11 AM – 3 PM
Bloomfest: Sunday, April 16th – 11 AM – 5 PM
Location:
Branch Brook Park
Branch Brook Park Dr
Newark, NJ 07107
Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival – Philadelphia, PA
If you’re looking for an authentic experience to learn and celebrate Japanese culture, there’s probably no better event than the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival. The Japan America Society of Greater Philly will host a Sakura weekend filled with unique experiences, live music, dance and taiko performances, cultural arts and crafts, and a vendor fair. The rich insight into the cultural significance is a perfect way to enjoy the cherry blossom season.
Sakura Weekend: Saturday, April 15th & Sunday. April 16th – 10:30 AM – 4 PM
Location:
West Fairmount Park
1769-1825 State Rte 3005
Philadelphia, PA 19131
Cherry Blossoms On the Reservoir Tours – NYC
Enjoying the beauty of the flowering cherry blossom trees is a neat experience, but enjoying their stunning colors against the reservoir in Central Park with a view of Manhattan in the background is absolutely breathtaking! What makes Central Park even more remarkable is the rich history it has to offer. Central Park Conservancy provides tours throughout April for visitors to enjoy the stories behind the beautiful Yoshino trees alongside the water.
Tours: Multiple days in April. Click on website to see more info.
Location:
Central Park Reservoir
Between 72nd Street and 96th Street
NYC
Each place has something unique to offer, whether you’re looking for a historical tour, a unique cultural experience, or a family fun day surrounded by thousands of cherry blossom trees. The “cherry blossom,” or Sakura in Japanese, represents renewal and new beginnings. My family and I will start a new tradition this year and enjoy the beauty of these trees around the corner from our hometown. What about you?
While making new memories, take pictures and tag us on social media #STAR991FM, and you might win a STAR Swag backpack.
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