The Richmond Cherry Blossom Festival returns to Garry Point Park on Sunday, April 2 in celebration of the splendour and transient beauty of the cherry blossom and the richness of Japanese culture. 

From 11 am to 4 pm, festival-goers are invited to enjoy a range of cultural performances, view exhibits and demonstrations featuring local Japanese artisans, and picnic under the amazing blossoms with food offerings from multiple food vendors.  

"Richmond’s Cherry Blossom trees are a spectacular site in early spring and we are thrilled to be able to share their beauty through our annual Cherry Blossom Festival in person once again,” said Mayor Malcolm Brodie. “This is also a great opportunity to celebrate our vibrant local Japanese-Canadian community and be able to reconnect and gather as a community with family, friends and visitors."

The theme of this year’s festival is kansha, which means gratitude or appreciation in Japanese, and highlights include:

Performances and demonstrations on the main stage in the Sakura Tent, including welcoming messages from Mayor Brodie; and Kohei Maruyama, the Consul General of Japan in Vancouver; along with festival directors and performances by taiko drummers, folk singers and dancers. 
A display commemorating the 50th anniversary of Richmond’s Sister City relationship with Wakayama, Japan. 
Displays and demonstrations from local artisans in the Matsuri Tent featuring calligraphy, bonsai and origami, as well as the opportunity to experience the beauty and ritual of a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony. 
The Chibi-Chan Tent where children of all ages can learn how to fold origami creatures using special Japanese papers and techniques. 
Food trucks and vendors featuring a range of Japanese menu items that can be enjoyed under the blossoms.
The Richmond Cherry Blossom Festival highlights the beauty of 255 Akebono cherry trees that were donated to the City from the BC Wakayama Kenjin Kai and planted in Garry Point Park.

For more information, visit www.richmondcherryblossomfest.ca and follow the City of Richmond’s events social media channel @FunRichmond. The City encourages visitors to share their images and experiences on social media using the hashtag #RichmondCherryBlossomFestival.