America, the melting pot.  As we pass through another year, we discover more unique cultures blending with the cultures of us who have been living in this land for decades and our ancestors’ centuries ago.  New traditions start, old ones fade away, and many of those who come to this land of opportunity bring cultural knowledge with them, planting it here to insure eternal longevity of their personal histories.

One such tradition, now blended into American soil is the “Hanami;” Japanese cultural tradition of viewing and celebrating each moment of the entire Cherry Blossom season.  Where else but in New York!  The Brooklyn Botanical Gardens will be hosting the 25th anniversary of this unique cultural tradition. 

For seniors who love to mix culture with a leisurely pace of art viewing, and horticultural experiences, the upcoming Brooklyn Botanical Garden Sakura Matsuri (New York’s rite of spring) will be the perfect get-away trip.  Events take place beginning April 8 – May 28 where cherry blossom lovers can begin to check in on the progress of the buds and ensuing blossoms.  A 25th anniversary epic event is scheduled for April 29 – April 30th.  While guests enjoy the beauty of strolling under the cherry trees, artisans will be showcasing oil paintings spanning 25 years of the cherry tree.  One such artist whose paintings will be present is Mizue Sawano.

  “Sakura Matsuri is the ancient Japanese rite of spring that according to tradition - allows for a time of reflection and revelry – to pause and be strengthened by the renewal of life.”  In Japanese tradition, the cherry tree is the most esteemed of all plants.  The regard in which the sakura (flowering cherry tree) is held is reflected in all aspects of Japanese culture, literature, and life.  Fleeting cherry blossoms are poignant symbols of a life in bloom.  Capturing a recurrent Japanese thought – that life is fragile and beautiful, however, moments can never be recaptured or experienced again.  Japanese culturists equate the blossoming cherry trees with human life – glorious and short lived.

Brooklyners are well acquainted with this time honored celebrated tradition.  The first Sakura Matsuri was held in 1982 with more than 55,000 guests coming through the area to see the fabulous cherry blossoms.  Meditation gardens, Zen gardens, the C.V. Starr Bonsai Museum, along with many officials and food vendors made up the historic first celebration. 

For the senior gardener, the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens will showcase over 200 flowering trees and 42 different varieties.  Some trees seen during this weekend will have been planted since 1914.  The Bonsai displays are considered to be one of the finest in the world and second in size on public display, outside of Japan.  Besides horticultural goodies, music, dances, taiko drumming, workshops, demonstrations, exhibits, and guided tours honoring the traditions of Japan will be available to those attending this extravaganza!

To find out more information  about cherry watch. .  You’ll find a myriad of other interesting places to experience in New York.  Why don’t you set aside a few extra days to visit one of the greatest cities in the world.  Happy Traveling!

(photos are courtesy of Brooklyn Botanical Gardens and www.stock.xchange.com members:  Michael Smick – doll, Noriko Natsume – cherry blossoms Kathrine de Vera – Bonsai, Peter Horvath – food,  Dee Fontenet – NY skyline)