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Cherry Blossom
Photograph: Courtesy @gigi.nyc

The Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival in NYC guide

The Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival—NYC's pink-petal mecca—celebrates Japanese culture in the springtime

Shaye Weaver
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Shaye Weaver
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Pink petals are popping across the Brooklyn Botanic Garden but unfortunately this year, the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival NYC, one of the city's most anticipated spring festivals that celebrates some fun and beautiful elements of Japanese culture, is canceled.

The festival usually invites visitors to watch and take part in performances and spring-related activities as the gorgeous, pink-petal trees color the backdrop. As one of the best NYC events in April, the Brooklyn attraction hosts the tradition every year, attracting thousands of flower fans.

This year, there's no festival, but you can still get tickets to BBG and walk its grounds that are still covered in cherry blossoms.

RECOMMENDED: See more of the best things to do in spring in NYC

What is the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival?

The festival honors the end of Hanami (the season of Japanese "flower porn") by showcasing the garden's prime cherry blossom blooms across two days with live music by J-rock bands, performances by Taiko drummers and samurai sword masters, and a number of fun activities including a mini flea market, a Japanese tearoom and an art gallery.

Where is the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival NYC?

Sakura Matsuri is held at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden (990 Washington Ave, Brooklyn). To get there on the subway, take the 2/3 train to Eastern Parkway/Brooklyn Museum.

When is the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival NYC?

 It usually happens in April.

How much is the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival NYC?

A daily ticket costs $40 for adults, or $35 for students and seniors. Children under 12 are free. 

Strand
Photograph: Courtesy Julie Markes

Watch a video of the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival NYC

Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival