Irmo, SC – The 8th annual Irmo Cherry Blossom Festival is set to take place on Saturday, March 22, 2025, at Irmo Town Park (7330 Carlisle Street). This beloved springtime event celebrates the fleeting beauty of the Japanese Yoshino cherry trees, reminding attendees of the preciousness of life through a day filled with culture, art, and community.
The family-friendly festival will feature blossom-viewing, picnicking, handcrafted artwork, food vendors, and cultural displays. Visitors can browse cherry blossom-themed wares, Japanese-inspired crafts, and traditional artwork, such as wire bonsai trees, kimekome fabric balls, and amigurumi crochet creations.
Cultural Highlights & Activities
- Japanese Tea & Treats – Sample wagashi, a traditional white bean paste sweet.
- Manga & Anime Fun – The Irmo Branch Library will showcase its manga collection and anime programs.
- Live Entertainment –
- 11:00 AM: Jazz and Japanese folk songs performed by Yuko Kimura.
- 1:00 PM: A powerful taiko drumming performance by Taiko Charleston.
- Haiku Contest Recognition – The festival will honor the winner of this year’s ICBF Haiku Contest, which received over 65 international entries.
Special Attractions
- Maid Café Experience – A whimsical Japanese-themed tea service.
- Kimono Stroll – Attendees are encouraged to wear traditional attire.
- Cosplay Contest – Hosted by Treasure Goblin Workshop, with unique trophies and registration at 2:00 PM.
- Japanese Import Car Drive-In – Featuring top three winners awarded at noon, followed by a parade, hosted by Buck’s Speed Shop.
Educational Booths & Kids’ Activities
- Japan America Association of SC – Offering bilingual storytelling and educational exhibits.
- Make Us Visible SC – An interactive coloring station highlighting Asian American contributions.
- Ikebana International – Hands-on Japanese flower arranging demonstrations.
- Children’s Crafts – Artistic Aspirations of Irmo will host a kokeshi doll painting activity.
The festival is proclaimed as Cherry Blossom Day in Irmo by Mayor Bill Danielson and is made possible by support from The Town of Irmo and The SC Commission for Minority Affairs.
For updates, follow the festival on Facebook and Instagram. Don’t miss this vibrant celebration of Japanese culture and springtime beauty!
