Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival

Saturday, April 9, 10am-3pm

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

Free with admission.

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 12:00pm, Haha Wall

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.  Kyo Daiko, Philadelphia’s only Japanese-style drumming crew, is a community-based group, formed by collaboration between the Settlement Music School and the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden in Fairmount Park.

Traditional Japanese Tea Demonstration

1:00 pm, HaHa Wall (rain location:  Upper Gallery)

The picnic tea or Chabako is a beautiful and unique form of the Japanese Tea Ceremony. Featuring traditional costumes and designed to be done outdoors, there are four distinct presentations, one for each of the seasons.  Weather permitting this 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