How to Scout the Cherry Blossom Trees in Style
If you live anywhere in the greater Vancouver area, you’re all too familiar with the beautiful pink blooming trees that occur in the springtime. In Japan, cherry blossom trees embody the beauty and fragility of life. Here in Vancouver, our Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival encourages unity and bonding across cultures. This year the Vancouver annual cherry blossom festival is in full swing from April 3rd until April 29th! To fully immerse ourselves in the culture and the beauty of these trees, I’ve compiled a list of historical context, MUST-SEE locations, and clothing options for the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival.
Image credit: tourismvancouver.com
Historical Context:
The Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival was founded by Linda Poole and her husband in 2005. In 2006. the Vancouver Board of Trade helped launch the festival. The original intention of the festival was to immerse Vancouverites in the cherry blossom related culture. I love how inclusive it’s origins are. Since then, the festival has grown immensely in popularity and the city of Vancouver boasts many cherry blossom related guides and festivals!
Must See Locations:
- The Sakura Days Japan Festival 2018 is being held in Van Dusen Garden on April 14th and April 15th. This festival showcases traditional Japanese dishes, flower arranging, and even flute making! Van Dusen Garden is a fragrant and inviting place for those who are interest in checking out Sakura Days. I could spend hours exploring the beautiful grounds. <3
- Queen Elizabeth Park on 33rd Avenue and Cambie Street is another gorgeous park that has a beautiful array of cherry blossom trees. I highly recommend bringing a picnic and enjoying your food underneath the beauty of the trees! There’s nothing better than outdoor eating.
- The Downtown Granville Plaza is a perfect place to visit on your lunch break! Nothing gives you a better rest from the office like nature. ALSO, the downtown locations makes it accessible for each of you city-folk! 😉
- Stanley Park! You guys were waiting for this option, weren’t you! 🙂 Stanley Park allows you to have access to the cherry blossom trees, the ocean, and beautiful biking paths. Take your hunny on a romantic outing where you scout out the cherry blossoms by bike. Exercise and nature makes for an amazing date!
Image credit: yourvancouverrealestate.ca
- Granville Island. Granville island is an amazing spot for tourists and locals alike! Their cherry blossom trees are located on the eastern end of Granville island sea wall. You can stop by one of the island’s restaurants – like Bridges – before scouting out your favourite trees!
Clothing Necessities:
- RAIN BOOTS. Who wants to view cherry blossom trees with wet feet?! Not me! I would recommend getting those gum boots out. I can always rely on my trusty Hunter Boots when I’m going on a Vancouver adventure. They’re super cute and functional, rain or shine!
- A warm jacket! Has anybody else noticed how windy it’s been in Vancouver lately?! To keep that chill AWAY, I would recommend wearing something like this Soia & Kyo Emerson Nylon Wind Breaker Jacket. How cute is pastel pink for spring?!
- A large backpack or purse. I’m able to fit all of my essentials into the Mila Backpack from Orb Clothing but any large backpack will do. When you’re scouting out cherry blossoms, you need to be able to carry your snacks, camera, and supplies with ease. 😉
Natalie’s Pro Tips:
- Arrive EARLY to your destination so you have time to find parking.
- Bring warm clothing such as mittens or a scarf! Although the blossoms are associated with springtime, our coastal weather is not always the warmest!
Photo Credit: hellovancity.com
Now that you’re prepared with all of the essentials, go forth and conquer the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival. <3 Enjoy immersing yourself in the beautiful combination of Japanese and Canadian culture. Maybe I’ll even see you guys down there! 😉
Natalie xx