Mississauga live-streaming its cherry blossom trees, keeping Kariya Park open for now

If you want to watch Mississauga’s cherry blossom trees bloom but don’t want to head to Kariya Park for fear of crowds, you can do so online again this year. 

The City of Mississauga recently announced that its cherry blossom webcam is streaming live starting today. According to the City, the 65 trees in Kariya Park are getting ready to burst into full bloom over the coming weeks. 

At this time, the City has no plans to close Kariya Park to visitors. 

The City says the cherry blossom livestream will be available from today until the petals start to fall, as the trees only stay in bloom for approximately two weeks.

Last year, there were over 28,000 visits to the webpage from April to June.

“We are very pleased to be offering this innovative virtual service again, so that residents can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms, no matter where they are,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie in a statement. 

“This year marks 40 years since Kariya, Japan, became our twin city. It reminds us of our enduring friendship and the importance of sharing this unique experience with our residents.”

Known as one of Mississauga’s most scenic parks, Kariya Park typically attracts many visitors who want to enjoy the blossoms (and perhaps snap a few pics in the process).

“Though Kariya Park is currently open, we encourage all residents to take advantage of the virtual option to safely enjoy the cherry blossoms this year, to help stop the spread of COVID-19,” said Jodi Robillos, Director, Parks, Forestry and Environment, in a statement. 

“If you do choose to visit in person, please keep in mind that, as with all of our parks, current COVID-19 restrictions and public health measures must be followed including maintaining physical distance of two metres (six feet) from others. To keep themselves and others safe, park users should also wear a face covering, even when outdoors, if physical distancing cannot be maintained.”

If public health restrictions are increased by the province, in-person visits to the park could be prohibited. 

To view the live cherry blossom webcam, visit mississauga.ca/blossoms.