The 2001 site has special historical significance as it contains trees donated by the Japanese government to Philadelphia for the U.S. Sesquicentennial in 1926. Your contribution will help cover the cost to purchase, plant and maintain new and older trees, continuing a legacy began nearly 75 years ago. Tree sponsors will also be recognized in a permanent directory on display in Fairmount Park. Most importantly, your donation will help beautify Philadelphia and provide an opportunity to strengthen relations between the Philadelphia region and Japan as Americans and Japanese join in friendship to celebrate the arrival of spring under the mantle of flowering cherry trees. Welcome spring, and celebrate a milestone on the way to fulfilling our pledge to plant 1,000 cherry trees in 10 years.
Children assist in the ceremonial planting.
Adults pour omiki, the ritual sake, to invoke the protection of the Shinto tree gods. Yuki Ishida conducts the Sakura Singers, a student ensemble from Neumann College, Japanese Language School of Philadelphia, St. Bernadette Choir and St. Malachy Youth Choir. This outdoor event will be held rain or shine. Please dress accordingly. RSVP Parking available on Pennsylvania Avenue and at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.