Vancouver is known for its stunning natural beauty, with a backdrop of mountains, forests, and water. In the springtime, the city is further enhanced by the arrival of the cherry blossoms, which explode in a flurry of delicate pink and white flowers. To celebrate this annual event, the city hosts the Cherry Blossom Festival, a month-long celebration of nature, culture, and community.
One of the festival's main attractions is the Haiku Invitational, a poetry contest that encourages poets worldwide to submit haiku inspired by cherry blossoms. Winning entries are featured on transit buses throughout the city, bringing a poetic touch to the daily commute. The entry deadline for the competition was March 15th, and the awards ceremony takes place on April 29th.
Another popular event during the festival is the Sakura Days Japan Fair, a two-day celebration on April 15th & 16th, of Japanese culture held at the VanDusen Botanical Garden. Visitors can enjoy traditional Japanese food, music, dance, and art, as well as witness tea ceremonies, taiko drumming performances, and ikebana flower arrangement demonstrations. The fair also features stalls selling Japanese crafts and souvenirs.
In addition to these events, the festival offers guided walking tours of some of Vancouver's most scenic areas, led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the history, culture, and significance of cherry blossoms. Popular areas for cherry blossom viewing include Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, and the University of British Columbia campus. The festival also hosts community events such as picnics, bike rides, and art installations, providing an opportunity for locals and visitors to come together and appreciate the beauty of the cherry blossoms and Vancouver's diverse communities.
Click the link for more information on the 2023 events: https://vcbf.ca
