Irmo — The 9th Annual Irmo Cherry Blossom Festival will take place March 21, 2026, at Irmo Town Park, continuing a growing tradition that celebrates the beauty and symbolism of cherry blossoms.
The festival highlights the themes of renewal and the fleeting nature of life, drawing inspiration from Japanese culture. Last year’s event attracted an estimated 3,000 attendees from across South Carolina and North Carolina.
This year’s festival will feature a wide range of activities, including food trucks, vendors and cultural demonstrations. A Japanese Import Car Drive-In is scheduled from 9 to 11 a.m., along with a cosplay contest and presentations on kimono and washi paper-making. Attendees can also enjoy performances of both traditional and contemporary Japanese music, as well as a Japanese festival drumming performance at 1 p.m.
In addition to entertainment, the event offers educational opportunities focused on Japanese culture, history, food and art. Informational booths will provide cultural insights, and the Japan-America Association of South Carolina will showcase artwork and everyday items from Japan.
The festival is supported by presenting sponsor the Town of Irmo, along with Friendship Sponsor Renewal by Andersen of the Carolinas, the South Carolina Commission for Community Advancement and Engagement, and the Japan-America Association of South Carolina.
Organizers say this year’s event is expected to build on past success and provide another engaging celebration of spring and cultural exchange.
For updates and additional details, follow the event on Facebook and Instagram.
About the festival
The Irmo Cherry Blossom Festival is an annual event celebrating the beauty of cherry blossoms and Japanese culture. It features activities such as car shows, cosplay contests, cultural performances and educational exhibits, bringing the community together to experience and appreciate Japanese traditions and the arrival of spring.
