One of Sydney’s most Instagrammable festivals has returned to town. The Auburn Botanic Gardens have transformed into a floral wonderland with the picture-perfect Cherry Blossom Festival taking place until August 25. Self-guided walks, cherry blossom-themed food and drink, live entertainment and creative workshops are on the menu along with hundreds of dainty pink flowers. Check out the very best things to do at the picturesque event in Sydney.
1. Go on a walk through the Cherry Trail
The popular Cherry Trail has returned with over 100 blooming Sakura trees and it’s the spot to head to for the perfect cherry blossom snapshot if you can successfully battle the crowds. Our suggestion is to get there really early in the day. The self-guided walk will take you through the tranquil gardens as you explore its many hidden nooks including lovely little waterfalls and get enthralled by the Cherry Arbour, the most popular spot for a picture. Pick your session times here.
2. Eat at the Japanese Food Village
You’ll naturally work up an appetite with all that walking, luckily the Japanese Food Village is handily setting up a variety of stalls slinging delicious Japanese fusion food and more. Popular Sydney spots like Demochi, 15cenchi Japanese Cheesecake, Hoy Pinoy and Tokyo Lamington will set up shop in the gardens. Expect treats like gyoza, rice bowls, dim sums, mochi donuts and themed food like cherry blossom fairy floss and Hello Kitty fairy floss. Check out the full list of vendors here.
3. Grab a drink a the Cherry Blossom Bar
Prefer to sit back and soak up the vibrant atmosphere at the festival? There is a cocktail bar on-site serving a variety of drinks including mocktails, beer, wine, Japanese sake, and much more. Sip on Asahi beer, limoncello spritz, and prosecco as you soak up the views at the venue.
4. Discover the gardens at the Cherry Blossom Festival
The Auburn Botanic Gardens are one of Sydney’s best-hidden gems. At the 9.7-hectare space, you’ll find two lakes, a waterfall and some picturesque bridges for that classic Instagram shot. You can also see some local animals like peacocks and wallabies and enjoy a moment of peace in the tranquil space.
5. Take part in an origami workshop
Aside from food, drinks and cherry blossoms, visitors can also embrace their creative side with the festival’s daily origami workshops. Unleash your inner artist and try your hands at making origami birds, butterflies, flowers and more to take home as a little souvenir. The workshops will take place 10am daily in the Pavilion.
There’s a lot more on the cards at the festival including live entertainment, Japanese flower arranging, local DJs spinning tunes and more. Head to the Cumberland Council website for the full program and to buy your tickets.