Celebrate the cherry blossom season in Columbus at the Greater Columbus Cherry Blossom Festival! This year, the festival will occur from March 24 to April 25, 2025, at destinations all over Columbus and greater Franklin County.
What to Expect?
The Cherry Blossom Festival in Franklin Park celebrates the beauty of over 100 blooming cherry trees, modeled after the famous festival in Washington, D.C. Former Ohio Governor Bob Taft and Mrs. Hope Taft serve as honorary chairs, lending civic pride to a springtime favorite.
Expect cultural performances, hands-on exhibits, and cherry blossom–inspired food and drinks throughout the park. Festival-goers can download a digital Passport to track events and explore the Cherry Blossom Food & Drink Trail at their own pace.
Mark Your Calendars
The month-long festival will be filled with cherry blossom-themed events, exhibits, live performances, and family-friendly activities, including the following events:
Now Through April
- March 24–April 25: Stop by the Martin Luther King Library to add a wish to the community Wishing Tree and browse a curated book display.
- March 29–April 25: Explore the Bexley Cherry Tree Tour, a self-guided walk highlighting cherry trees throughout the city.
Cultural Exhibits & Experiences
- April 4: Head to Whetstone Library for an IVO Cultural Event, featuring a live Koto performance, Aikido demonstrations, and traditional displays of peace fans, Ikenobo flower arrangements, and kimonos.
- April 14: The Main Library Auditorium hosts another IVO showcase, including Awa Odori, Obon dance, Korean drumming, Chinese Spring dance, Tai Chi, calligraphy, and kimono exhibits.
Festivals & Celebrations
- April 5: The Worthington Cherry Blossom and Sister City Celebration returns to the Old Worthington Library.
- April 6: Enjoy JASCO Cherry Blossom Day at the Franklin Park Conservatory—Franklin County residents receive free admission.
- April 6: Families can also take part in a Cherry Tree Scavenger Hunt at the International Peace Garden in Franklin Park (materials available at the IVO tent by the ponds).
- April 7: Don’t miss the Upper Arlington Cherry Blossom Celebration at Mallway Park.
- April 13: Ohio University hosts its annual Spring Festival, packed with student and community activities.
Art, Performance, & Pop Culture
- April 12: Discover the art of traditional Japanese flower arranging at the Ikebana Display at the Yokoso Center.
- April 12: The Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon: The Super Live takes the stage at the Palace Theater—a must-see for anime fans.
- April 25: Cap the season with NARUTO: The Symphonic Experience at the Palace Theater, blending the iconic anime soundtrack with a live orchestra.
Cherry Blossom Food & Drink Trail
No festival is complete without its fair share of food. Try Japan-inspired treats and drinks at these local Columbus establishments:
- Belle’s Bread – Cherry Blossom Melon Roll\
- Daruma Japanese Steakhouse & Sushi – Free appetizer
- Little Cat Boba – Cherry Blossom Boba
- Mjomii Dessert and Coffee House – Cherry Blossom Macarons
- Wolf’s Ridge Brewing Taproom – Hinoki, a Japanese-inspired lager
- Zen Cha Café & Tea – Kyoto Cherry Blossom Tea
Cherry Blossom Festival Photo Ops
If you’re looking for Instagram-worthy photo spots, find cherry blossoms to snap your selfie here:
- The Community Garden at Franklin Park Conservatory
- International Peace Garden in Franklin Park
- Goodale Park
- The Scioto Mile
- Mirror Lake at The Ohio State University
- Along the streets of German Village.
Plan Your Visit
Prepare your visit by downloading the Park Columbus App to find and pay for street parking in areas like Goodale Park, the Scioto Mile, and German Village.
Franklin Park has free parking lots for visitors, but they fill up quickly! To avoid crowds, do your best to arrive early for events!
FAQ:
Where can I see cherry blossoms in Columbus, Ohio?
In addition to the events and destinations mentioned in this article, the best place to see cherry blossoms in Columbus is Franklin Park, a public park on the east side of Columbus.
What should I wear to the Cherry Blossom Festival?
Spring weather can be unpredictable! You may need a coat in the morning but be hot in the afternoon, so it’s best to dress in layers and bring an umbrella in case of rain.
How long do cherry blossoms last in Ohio?
Cherry blossoms typically bloom at the end of March into early April! They can last for anywhere from 7-10 days and up to two weeks.
What do people do during the Cherry Blossom Festival?
The Cherry Blossom Festival offers visitors the opportunity to appreciate cherry blossoms that only appear for a short time each year! The festival is also a great way to experience Japanese culture all around the city of Columbus.
