Sakura Matsuri at Brooklyn Botanical Garden

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Brooklyn Botanical Gardens was packed with cosplaying anime fans and horticultural enthusiasts alike during the Sakura Matsuri festival. Every year when the cherry blossom trees bloom, BBG hosts the festival to officially welcome spring back to the borough.

Those that attended the event were entertained by fantastic native Japanese music, dance, and martial arts; there was taiko drumming, a narimono drum ensemble alongside Awa Odori dance, traditional Minbu dance by the Japanese Folk Dance Institute of New York, Taiko Masala (taiko drumming with Brooklyn-style martial arts), and so much more. Toyko’s stand-up comedian Kaori paid a visit on Saturday and Sunday saw some fascinating Japanese-inspired magic tricks from Rich Kameda.

There was also plenty of Japanese art and discussions to experience throughout the weekend set up in various parts of the park, including Manga Madness at Osborne Garden, J-Lounge Stage at Osborne Garden, and Bonsai, Ikebana, and Torii Tours. Whether you were looking to learn something new, experience a unique artistic style, or just hang out among the trees, your needs were met at the Sakura Matsuri festival.

If you missed the festival, don’t worry! The cherry blossoms will still be in full bloom for another week or so. BBG holds the festival every year with just as much pizazz if not more. They’re a sight worth seeing and have become a natural staple in Brooklyn that everyone should check out at least once. Head over to the botanical garden and see these magnificent trees and their brilliant flowers before they disappear for another year.