Western Sydney’s pinkest festival is back! Starting Saturday, August 16, Auburn is once again playing host to the Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival, and this year is bigger and better than ever.
In an explosion of culture, colour and celebration, this is an event not to miss out on.
Symbolising beauty and renewal, the Cherry Blossom is often our first sign that the harshness of winter is coming to a close, and the warmth and new life of spring is ahead.
Thus, the Sydney Cherry Blossom festival is a wonderful way to celebrate the new season with family and friends.
Running for nine breathtaking days, the Auburn Botanic Gardens will blossom into a blush-pink paradise, attracting thousands to one of western Sydney’s most photogenic and uplifting festivals. With over 200 Cherry Blossom trees on the grounds, a walking trail through the gardens, and a stunning Japanese lake and water feature, there’s so much to explore.
The festival boasts an array of food, drinks and entertainment, including high energy Taiko drummers, Ikebana flower art, as well as all your Japanese foodie favourites, including Ramen, Mochi, Matcha and so much more. The festival also includes an exclusive bar where Japan and Italy combine to make something truly magical. There’s also activities for the kids to enjoy, with Origami, Manga drawing and hands-on workshops running every day.
To plan your day and make the most of your visit, arrive in the morning for a peaceful stroll through the Cherry Blossom Trail. Make sure you come hungry, as after you’ve taken in the scenery and it’s time for lunch, head over the food and drinks pavilion to grab a deliciously Japanese themed snack. Why not bring a picnic rug and relax on the grounds while enjoying your treats?
While you’re there, stop by the Sakura Stage to take in the dynamic and lively entertainment. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes as you’ll want to explore the grounds for hours. And don’t forget your camera for those blossom filled snaps!
Parra News was given the inside scoop to explore the grounds ahead of the festival’s opening, and I was blown away. Never have I seen so many Cherry Blossoms and felt such a calm serenity. The Cherry Blossom Trail is absolutely beautiful; lined with blush-pink flowers and buds ready to burst, scenting the air with a sweet, floral fragrance.
The traditional landscaping and water features of the Japanese garden create a tranquil feel as soon as you step foot onto the grounds and are wonderful to walk through, with so many twists and turns, you could walk amongst it for hours.
The organiser of the festival, Cumberland City Council, is thrilled to host the festival for another year, with each team member working hard to make your Cherry Blossom Festival experience the best it can be. This award-winning festival is a jewel in the crown of the western Sydney community, bringing even more life and love to the paths of the much-loved Auburn Botanic Gardens.
The Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival is not one to be missed; with so much on offer there’s something to entice everyone.
Tickets are available at http://www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/sydneycherryblossomfestival.
Madeline Dantier is the author of the Experience Parramatta series, hosted by Parra News.