Cherry blossoms ready to bloom in Burlington

The mix of rain and warm weather could spell an early awakening of cherry blossoms in Burlington this year.

Reports say conditions are right for the trees to bloom a bit early bringing their spectacular displays out a week or two earlier than the usual prime viewing season of late April and early May.

Last year at the Royal Botanical Gardens (RBG) the peak bloom time was April 19. Right now early buds are beginning to show on branches at RBG.

Another location to view cherry blossoms will be Spencer Smith Park. Here, you can take part in the centuries-old tradition of hanami, the Japanese term for flower viewing. Called sakura in Japan, these cherry blossom trees traditionally bloom at the end of April to early May, but some trees are already beginning to reveal their pinkish buds.

No matter where you visit to see the display, remember that climbing the cherry trees, pulling on the branches and plucking off the blooms can seriously damage the tree and future blooms.

To coincide with the season, the City of Burlington hosts the Sakura (Cherry Blossom) Festival in honour of Burlington’s twin city, Itabashi, Japan. This will be held on May 11 at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre.

This event will feature a drumming performance, a karate demonstration, music and dance. More details will be announced later.