Branch Brook Park Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 Calendar of Events

From Saturday, April 5, to Sunday, April 13, 2025, Essex County Branch Brook Park will host its annual Cherry Blossom Festival, a vibrant celebration set among the park's world-famous cherry trees. Just a short drive from Harrison, NJ, and accessible via the Clifton Avenue Exit on Route 280 West, this event promises a week of exciting activities for all ages.

The story of Branch Brook Park's cherry trees began with a gracious donation from Mrs. Caroline Bamberger Fuld. Inspired by cherry blossom trees on a trip to Japan, Mrs. Ballantine initiated the planting of these trees in the late 1920s. Her vision has since blossomed into the largest collection of cherry trees in the United States, with over 5,000 trees painting the park in hues of pink and white each spring. Mrs. Bamberger planted approximately 2000 trees initially.

Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr., along with the diligent efforts of the Branch Brook Park Alliance and numerous volunteers, has significantly expanded the festival's offerings over the years. Thanks to their dedication and the generous sponsorship of RWJ Barnabas Medical, the 2025 festival is set to be the most dynamic yet.

Cherry Blossom Challenge Bike Race
Kickstarting the festival on Saturday, April 5, 2025 cyclists will gather at the Northern Division Oval for the Cherry Blossom Challenge Bike Race. This official NJBA event features races from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm, offering cash prizes and various race categories, with entry fees ranging from $20 to $50.

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Cherry Blossom 10K Run
On Sunday, April 6, 2025, the park will buzz with the energy of runners participating in the Essex County Cherry Blossom 10K Coed Team Championship Run. Participants will race through the scenic cherry groves, with pre-registration fees set at $45, and race day fees at $50. A portion of the entry fee benefits the Special Olympics New Jersey.

Essex County One-Mile Fun Run and Family Day
The festivities continue on Saturday, April 12, 2025, starting with the One-Mile Fun Run at 10:00 am, followed by Family Day at 11:00 am in the Concert Grove. These events offer free admission, engaging activities for children, and performances that promise to entertain.

Bloomfest!
The festival culminates on Sunday, April 13, 2025, with Bloomfest, featuring a full day of free activities from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. The schedule includes Japanese cultural demonstrations, live music, a crafter's marketplace, and much more. Performances by groups such as Soh Daiko and Taikoza highlight the day, alongside food and craft vendors.

Educational and Cultural Enrichment

Throughout the festival, the Cherry Blossom Welcome Center will host Cherry Blossom Talks every Wednesday and Saturday, providing visitors with insights into the cultural significance of cherry blossoms. Additionally, historic cell phone tours are available all season, allowing guests to learn about the park at their leisure.

The Branch Brook Park Cherry Blossom Festival not only celebrates the arrival of spring but also fosters community spirit and cultural appreciation. With its rich history and diverse offerings, this event continues to be a highlight of the Essex County calendar, drawing visitors from Harrison and beyond to revel in the beauty of nature and the joy of community gatherings.

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