Take transit to the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival
Take transit to the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival
Just a few weeks ago, snow blanketed Metro Vancouver. Now, cherry blossoms are starting to blanket the region!
The Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival is back showcasing the beauty of these soft, pink-petaled trees across the Metro Vancouver region. It runs from April 1 to 23. There are more than 43,000 trees to look at but watch out — they bloom at their own pace!
We’re highlighting the key events during the festival to help you maximize your pink-petal-viewing time!
April 1 – The Big Picnic
When: April 1, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Where: David Lam Park, 1300 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2Y1
How: 6 Davie / Downtown, 23 Main St Stn / Beach, Yaletown-Roundhouse Station
Why: The Big Picnic is the opening ceremony of the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival. It features traditional Japanese ceremonies, food trucks, and of course, the many cherry blossom trees that surround the park! Go early and grab yourself a great spot to bask in the presence of cherry blossom trees.
While you’re there, make sure you stop by to say hello to the TransLink community outreach team and board our historical museum bus. We’re proud to be a partner once again this year. Check out transit artifacts, memorabilia, and a timeline of transit in Metro Vancouver from 1890 to now on board this 1957 General Motors TDH-4512 bus, or commonly referred to as the “old look” bus. Why is it called that? You’ll want to stop by and ask one of the Transit Museum Society volunteers why!
Sakura Days Japan Fair
When: April 15 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on April 16 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: VanDusen Botanical Garden, 5251 Oak St, Vancouver, BC V6M 4H1
How: 10 Granville / Downtown, 17 Downtown / Oak
Why: A celebration of all things Japan! You’ll be immersed with ceremonies, games, performances, and vendors that complement the beautiful cherry blossoms around the park. Be sure to reserve your spot and get your ticket soon!
Bike the Blossoms
When: April 22, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: John Hendry Park (Trout Lake Park), 3300 Victoria Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4M4
How: 7 Nanaimo Stn / Dunbar and BC Parkway
Why: Combine seeing the cherry blossoms with active transportation! Ride your bike to John Hendry Park to embark on an adventure of cherry blossom-filled streets, finishing off with coffee and tea to reflect on your experience!
Can’t attend the events? Find where else you can enjoy the blossoms by transit!
These trees are everywhere in Metro Vancouver. Check out our post on transit-friendly stops in Metro Vancouver to see cherry blossoms. You can also find you nearest (or farthest) cherry blossoms with Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival’s Blossom Finder, then plan your trip using our Trip Planner!
What’s your favourite spot? Leave it in the comments.
