It’s no secret, Philadelphia is home to many exciting festivals and exhibits. But none other is quite as aesthetically pleasing as a two-day celebration of Japanese culture and the Sakura. The 2025 Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival is set to bloom this April, and we can’t wait! Enjoy vendors, live performances, karaoke, and more!
What is the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival?
The Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival is an annual spring festival in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park organized by the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia (JASGP) with sponsorship from Subaru of America, Inc. Indeed, this is a spectacular family-friendly festival. Firstly, it celebrates Japanese arts and culture with a spotlight on the Sakura, the Japanese cherry blossom.
Specifically, various locations throughout the park including the Horticulture center, will be completely transformed into a majestic fair filled with interactive and immersive workshops, captivating performances, and of course -food. Also, be sure to have your phones charged and cameras ready! During Sakura weekend, you’ll be surrounded by photogenic landscapes and picturesque cherry blossoms.
When is the 2025 Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival?
This year, the 2025 Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival will be Saturday April 5 and Sunday April 6th. The festival begins each day at 10 a.m. and concludes at 5 p.m. Important to note, this is a rain or shine event.
Where does the festival take place?
Each year, Sakura Weekend is held at the Horticulture Center and Centennial Arboretum in West Fairmount Park, Philadelphia. Additionally, the Shofuso Japanese House and Garden will be open. However, a separate ticket is needed to visit.
What to expect?
Indeed, festivalgoers can expect a Sakura weekend filled with plenty to do. Here’s a snippet of what to expect at this year’s event:
- vendor fair
- live performances
- Pretty in pink contest
- family fun (facepainting, storytelling)
- cosplay fashion show
- karaoke
Next, there will be various immersive workshops available for participation during Sakura Weekend. These fill up so be sure to book early online. Lastly, you can see the full weekend intinerary by visiting the webpage here.
How do I get there?
Festivalgoers are encouraged to utilize SEPTA to get to the event. However, for those who are driving parking will be available for a discounted rate of $10 at The Mann Center.
Is the Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival still free?
No, this is a ticketed event. While in other years the festival was free during COVID, it has now reinstated admission prices. In fact, the prices are still the same as 2019.
For General Admission:
- $15 for Adults
- Children under 12 Free
- JASGP Member Admission: Free
- Access Card Holders: $5 at the gate
For Special Programs:
Tickets are Timed Entry, Quantities are limited
- Shofuso Tour: $5
Members Free, Registration for Timed Tickets Required - Ikebana Class: $10
- Tea Ceremony: $5
Is there food, drinks, and alcohol available to purchase?
Yes, there will be various food vendors onsite and a beer garden for alcohol consumption. It is recommended you bring your own food and picnic in the park for an authentic Ohanami experience.
Important to note, alcohol consumption is not permitted in West Fairmount Park outside of the designated beer garden area.
Undoubtably, this is one of Philadelphia’s most highly anticipated and beloved festivals. It is a celebration of the beauty and wonder of Japanese arts and culture. Furthermore, it brings together people from all over the region to celebrate nature and the stunning cherry blossoms.
The festival is ready to bloom…
Alas, it’s beginning to feel like spring.
The 2025 Sakura Weekend kicks off April 5 & 6 in Fairmount Park.
Lastly, for more information on the 2025 Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival or to purchase tickets, visit the website here.
Check out a recap from last’s year festivities below 👇