Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival

Saturday, April 8, 10am-3pm

Experience the beauty of Morris Arboretum’s cherry tree collection in bloom.  Both Saturdays will feature traditional Japanese cultural activities.

Cherry Walk

10:15am and 12:15pm, meet at Garden Rail entrance

Visitors are invited to discover and appreciate the variety of cherry species planted throughout the Arboretum.  This 45 minute walk will be led by an Arboretum expert.  Space is limited.

Kyo Daiko Drumming Crew

10:30am and 12pm, Azalea Meadow

Taiko drumming has been practiced in Japan for hundreds of years at festivals, battles, and as a means of communication over long distances.  A combination of choreography and drumming, taiko drumming is physically demanding and visually compelling.  KyoDaiko, under the sponsorship of the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia, is a community-based taiko drumming group offering classes in the Wynnefield section of Philadelphia.

Traditional Japanese Tea Demonstration

1pm, Oak Allée Plaza (rain location:  Upper Gallery)

Ryurei is a table-style tea ceremony developed in the late 19^th century to accommodate foreign visitors to Japan.  The misonodana, or imperial garden table, is featured in this presentation. Weather permitting, the demonstration will be outside.

Japanese Garden Elements Tours

2-3pm, meet at Garden Rail entrance

Led by an Arboretum docent, this tour will highlight the Arboretum’s Japanese-style gardens.

All events free with garden admission.