If you need plans for the weekend, look no further! Philadelphia is hosting its 22nd annual Cherry Blossom Festival . To celebrate 
America’s independence, Japan donated over a thousand cherry blossom trees to Philly in the early 1900s. Philly continues to celebrate this gift and connection to Japan for a full week every spring season.
Businesses across the city embrace this connection by hosting sushi making and rolling classes, competitions and contests, tea ceremonies, drumming workshops, a Japanese film, a fashion show, and flower-arranging demos.
This past week, I strolled through fresh and full-bloomed cherry blossom trees at Fairmount Park’s Horticultural Center (definitely a must-see). Throughout the week, Fairmount Park invites visitors to see the trees, participate in Japanese-themed activities and check out the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden.
The celebration at Fairmount Parl ends on “Sakura Sunday,” a day full of authentic food, music, dancing, fashion shows, martial arts performances, arts, and crafts. Sunday, tickets are $15 for adults and free for children 12 and under. Definitely take this opportunity to learn about a new culture and appreciate the beautiful scenery.
Like what you see? Come visit us!
Story and photography by: Alyssa Bauer, junior public relations major
