In one of Burlington’s long-standing cultural traditions, the city will be hosting its Sakura Festival this May, celebrating spring cherry blossoms and Burlington’s relationship to its sister city of Itabashi, Japan.
The festival is designed to highlight Japanese culture and international connections, opening with greetings from the Mayor and the Consul General of Japan. There will be performances from Japanese-style taiko drummers in Burlington’s own Do Kon Daiko group and the internationally known Nagata Shachu. Visitors can also see demonstrations of traditional Japanese dances in the suzuran odori and yosakoi styles.
The Japanese traditions of martial arts will also be represented with demonstrations of aikido, iaido and karate. There will be artwork on display by children at Frontenac Public School in Burlington and Fujimidai Public School in Itabashi, reflecting the goal of cultural connections. This year’s festival is commemorating the 37th anniversary of the sister city relationship.
Following the performances, attendees are encouraged to walk to Spencer Smith Park and view the Japanese-style sakura or cherry blossom trees, which are in bloom for a short time during April and May. Natural attractions like this often use signage and brochure printing to help point out the historic and cultural connections behind national symbols such as sakura blossoms.
The 2026 Sakura Festival in Burlington will take place at the Family Lobby of the Burlington Performing Arts Centre on May 9.
