Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival

Cherry blossom season will land in Sydney this winter, and with it, Auburn's beloved Cherry Blossom Festival, one of the most Instagrammable events on the NSW calendar. Running from August 17-25 2024 in the Auburn Botanic Gardens, this pink-hued festival is all about celebrating Japanese traditions, music, pop culture and food, with visitors able to wander through fields of fluffy pink sakura blossoms in a traditional Japanese garden.

As always, this year’s program is brimming with food, activities, workshops, live music, dance and taiko drumming performances. Catch a live DJ set from Andrew Levins, get festive with the fun percussive sounds of YuNiOn Taiko!, or witness acrobatic wonder thanks to hula hoop master Shiho Sparkle Hooper. Hello Kitty fans can catch themed performances every day at noon and 2pm, or get up close and personal with Hello Kitty herself at a meet and greet (daily at 1pm). If you’re keen to get creative, you can join one of the many workshops on offer – with the opportunity to learn everything from belly dancing to origami.

The Japanese Food Village will be back in full swing, slinging creative Japanese-fusion delights ranging from Mochi donuts to pink-hued burgers, and the Cherry Blossom Bar will be serving up a selection of Japanese-inspired drinks.

To secure a spot, you’ll need to book tickets – they're free for all residents of the Cumberland area; otherwise, out-of-area adults pay $15.55, and kids aged 5-16 pay $6.60 each. 

Want more flower power? Check out our list of the best public gardens you can visit in Sydney.

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