The start of springtime in Philadelphia means one thing: cherry blossoms. Celebrate the pink blooms at the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival this weekend in West Fairmount Park. This annual event is a family-friendly weekend festival of Japanese arts, culture, food, and the welcome arrival of spring. Best of all? Kids under 12 get free admission. 

What Is the Cherry Blossom Festival?

The Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival is organized by the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia (JASGP) and its sponsor, Subaru. This year marks the 100th anniversary of Japan’s gift of 1,600 cherry trees to Philadelphia, making it the Sakura Centennial. 

Sakura Weekend takes place rain or shine Saturday, March 28th, and Sunday, March 29th, at West Fairmount Park’s Horticulture Center and Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center. Hours are 10 am–5 pm, with general admission $15 in advance and $20 at the gate. And yes, admission is free for children under 12.

Sakura: The Star of the Show

Sakura is the Japanese word for cherry blossoms, which are the national flower of Japan. They hold deep significance in Japanese culture, reflected as a motif not only in art and literature, but also in cuisine. The cherry blossom tree is sometimes given to other nations as a symbol of friendship, like those given to Philadelphia in 1926.

One hundred years later, Japan’s gift to the city is the star of Philly’s Cherry Blossom Festival. The fest kicks off the peak bloom season, which is expected the first week of April. 

The blossoms last about two weeks, so catch them while you can! The cherry trees are spread throughout the grounds of the Horticulture Center and the Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center, and do not require a ticket for viewing outside of the festival.

Family Fun at the Philly Cherry Blossom Festival

Bring the family because the festival features a variety of traditional and modern Japanese performances on two stages, kid-friendly games, calligraphy, and more. Pets are welcome, too! On both days, sample Japanese food and wares at the vendor fair. 

Saturday, March 28 

Saturday’s schedule is relaxed and fun. Here are some highlights perfect for little ones. 

• Origami with Philadelphia Pholders
• Sakura face-painting
• An all-day scavenger hunt
• Japanese table games
• A children’s kimono dressing (for ages 3, 5, and 7) from 12:30–1:30 pm
• A colorful cosplay fashion show at 3 pm

Sunday, March 29 

Sunday is packed with highlights, especially for families and fans of Japanese culture. 

• A children’s kimono dressing (ages 3, 5, and 7) from 10–11 am
• Origami with Philadelphia Pholders
• Sakura face-painting
• An all-day scavenger hunt
• Japanese table games
• A cherry blossom tree planting ceremony 
• Penn Shotokan Karate
• A special Mummers performance
• J-Alternative fashion show follows on the Tomadachi Stage at 12:40 PM. 
• The fan-favorite “Pretty in Pink” pet contest and parade at 2 pm at Sundial Circle
• Taiko drumming at 4:10 PM — a powerful and authentically Japanese finale not to be missed.

Live entertainment will take place at both the Main Stage and the Tomadachi Stage behind the Horticulture Center throughout the weekend. View the full schedule for the festival’s complete lineup of performers and activities.

Food, Shopping, and Practical Tips for “Ohanami”

When the family gets hungry, enjoy the Cherry Blossom Festival’s expanded food court featuring Japanese and Asian cuisine. The food court will be located behind the Horticulture Center near the Tomodachi Stage. There will also be a beer garden, in addition to pop-up locations throughout the festival featuring both Japanese beer and local brews.

The Vendor Fair and Artist Alley feature local artisans, as well as one-of-a-kind Japanese merchandise. 

The festival is rain or shine, and encourages families to bring their pets. Attendees can also bring their own food and picnic in Fairmount Park for an authentic “ohanami” (blossom-viewing) experience. 

Tickets:

• $15 in advance/$20 at the gate 
• Children under 12: Free
• JASGP Members: Free
• Access Card Holders: $5 at the gate

Festival add-on pricing:

• Shofuso Japanese Cultural Center Admission: $15 for 30 minutes
• Tea ceremony: $10 for 15 minutes (sessions sold out, demonstration is free)
• Ikebana workshops: $20 for one hour

Transportation Information:

• Parking: $10 per vehicle at the Highmark Mann (5201 Parkside Ave.)
• Paid parking is also available along the Avenue of the Republic.
• Shuttle buses will also run from the Independence Visitor Center to the Please Touch Museum.
• The Philly PHLASH also provides service from Center City; take the T1 line to the Please Touch Museum.
• Find additional public transportation information on SEPTA’s website.

Don’t Miss Sakura Weekend 2026

The Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival is without a doubt one of Philadelphia’s most beloved spring traditions. With free admission for kids, a pet-friendly environment, live entertainment, cultural enrichment, and beautiful flowers overhead, it’s the perfect family outing. Mark your calendars for March 28th & 29th, and get ready for spring in full bloom.

All photos courtesy of Visit Philadelphia.