The 7th annual Irmo Cherry Blossom Festival is set to take place on Saturday, March 23, 2024, at Irmo Town Park, located at 7330 Carlisle Street in Irmo, SC. This family-friendly festival honors the beautiful flowering Japanese Yoshino cherry trees, symbolizing the beauty, transience, and preciousness of life.
Key highlights of the festival include:
- Picnicking and blossom-viewing
- Food vendors offering a variety of treats
- Artists and craftspeople vending cherry blossom-inspired wares, traditional and pop-culture Japanese themed art
- Japanese tea tasting and sweet treats
- Martial arts demonstration by Ultimate Sport Martial Arts Academy
- 12-foot tall Pikachu, “maid cafe” experience, green tea service, kimono stroll, and a costume contest hosted by Soda City 3D Art and Cosplay
- Japanese Import Car Drive-In featuring custom-designed trophies for winners
- Japan America Association of South Carolina booth with stories in Japanese and English
- Silent auction with Japanese items donated by members, proceeds donated to Bugz Bunny Rabbit Rescue
- Recognition of international haiku contest winners
- Mid-Carolina Camellia Society informational booth about camellia flowers
The festival, which began in 2018, celebrates the six Yoshino cherry trees planted in 2001 at Irmo Town Park. The blooming cherry trees create a spectacular display of pale pink blossoms, enhancing the charm of the jewel-box park.
In addition to the cultural and entertainment offerings, the festival features a silent auction with proceeds benefiting Bugz Bunny Rabbit Rescue, showcasing the community’s commitment to charitable causes.
For more information and updates, interested individuals can follow the festival on Facebook and Instagram. The event promises a day of cultural exploration, artistic expression, and appreciation for the natural beauty of cherry blossoms.
Photo by Kimberly Oakley of Studio 3P
