The 20th Annual Cherry Blossom Festival in Philadelphia drew more than 15,000 thousand people to Fairmount Park. The festival traditionally begins with the breaking of the sake drum. The area within Fairmount Park is known for its famous cherry trees. The tradition started in 1926 when Japan gave the City of Philadelphia 1600 cherry trees as a sign of friendship. Over the years, the Japan American Society of Greater Philadelphia pledged to plant another 1000 cherry trees throughout the region and succeeded in 2007.

Over the years, the festival has grown to include, favorites like world renowned Tamagawa University Dance and Drum Troupe, Japanese Tea Ceremonies, and fans that come to the festival dressed as their favorite anime characters. It is a festival made for the whole family as well as learning about different aspects of Japanese culture. We take a look at some of the things that caught our eye.

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