Free sakura festival inspired by Japan arrives in Ontario this weekend
The annual Sakura (Cherry Blossom) Festival in Burlington returns this May with traditional drumming, dance, martial arts demonstrations and of course, stunning blooms. The event coincides with the 36th anniversary of the city's twinning agreement with Itabashi, Japan.
Hosted by the Burlington Mundialization Committee, the free event will take place on Saturday, May 10, 2025, from 1 to 3:30 p.m.
Festivities will be held at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre Family Lobby and Spencer Smith Park.
What to expect:
This year's celebration features a full lineup of cultural performances and activities. The day will start with greetings from Mayor Marianne Meed Ward and Consul General of Japan MATSUNAGA Takeshi.
Burlington's own Do Kon Daiko drumming group will kick off the festivities with an energetic taiko performance.
Throughout the day, visitors can enjoy karate, aikido, and iaido demonstrations, a performance by internationally acclaimed taiko ensemble Nagata Shachu, and traditional Japanese dance showcases, including suzuran odori.
The event will close with a vibrant yosakoi dance by Sakuramai Toronto.
The celebration also includes a display of student artwork from Frontenac Public School in Burlington and Fujimidai Public School in Itabashi.
Cherry blossoms
What's a sakura festival without the cherry blossoms? Residents are invited to take part in hanami, the centuries-old Japanese tradition of flower viewing under the park's blooming cherry blossom trees.
According to the city, the trees typically bloom from late April to early May, creating a short window to enjoy their soft pink petals.
Attendees are reminded to respect cherry blossom viewing etiquette. Please avoid climbing trees, pulling branches, or plucking blooms. It's also important to remain on designated trails to protect sensitive ecological areas.
The festival offers a unique opportunity to experience Japanese culture while enjoying one of spring's most breathtaking natural displays.
Will you be going this year?
The Sakura (Cherry Blossom) Festival takes place Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 1 to 3:30 p.m., at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre Family Lobby, 440 Locust St.
Fareen Karim
