Philadelphia cherry blossoms peak first week of April

Philadelphia is getting ready for its cherry blossom season, which is expected to reach its peak in the first week of April. This timing coincides with the annual Cherry Blossom Festival at the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center. The cherry trees were first gifted to Philadelphia by the Japanese government in 1926 to celebrate America’s 150th anniversary. Over the years, more trees have been planted. In total, about 2,850 cherry trees now thrive in the city. Sandi Polyakov, the garden curator at Shofuso, believes the blossoms bring joy to many people. They serve as a symbol of spring and nature's beauty. This year, the peak bloom is predicted to align with the festival on April 5 and 6. Despite the harsh winter, experts expect a vibrant display of pink and white flowers. Pamela Morris Olshefski, a plant collections manager, notes that the early and later blooming cherry trees will both be visible this year. The cherry trees in Philadelphia include more than just the popular Yoshino variety. At the Morris Arboretum, visitors can see over 60 different types of cherry trees. Each variety offers a range of colors and forms, enhancing the spring landscape. The Cherry Blossom Festival has grown significantly since its start in 1998. It attracted about 40,000 people last year and is now a major local event. Festival tickets are priced starting at $15, with free entry for children under 12 and members of the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia. The festival promotes traditional Japanese customs, like eating and dancing under the cherry blossoms, creating a cultural experience reminiscent of celebrations in Japan.