Cherry Blossom Season

In March and April, parks and gardens bloom with delicate pink and white cherry blossoms, signaling the start of spring. The tradition of celebrating the beautiful flowering trees originated in Japan, and is known as hanami, which translates to “flower viewing.” The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is home to 26 different varieties of flowering cherry trees, or sakura, and the first flowers are blooming in the gardens. Walking through the quiet park, flashes of pink and white are bright in the sunlight, and tiny petals rain down when the wind blows. It’s a beautiful way to celebrate the end of winter and welcome the warm, sunny days that are around the corner.

Under the Cherry Blossoms

A flowering cherry tree in the Japanese Hill-And-Pond Garden at Brooklyn Botanic Garden.

We all know what springtime means: longer days, warmer weather, and, of course, blossoming cherry trees. Ahead of the Cherry Blossom Festival, also called Sakura Matsuri, a few trees at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden have already blossomed. The festival, held later this month, celebrates the Japanese cultural tradition of enjoying each moment of the cherry blossom season and contemplating the beauty and fragility of life. But don't just wait for the festival. Most, if not all, of the cherry trees will soon be in full bloom. Don't have anyone to go with? Not to worry. As the famed Japanese poet Issa says: "Under the cherry blossoms / none are / utter strangers."