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The annual cherry blossom festival will return this year in a virtual format on April 11.
The celebration of spring will feature around-the-clock views of hundreds of cherry trees across the city.
Trees are in full bloom this week in many parts of Richmond. This year's festival will feature online activities and events, including how-to demonstrations with local artisans and new musical performances.
Mayor Malcolm Brodie said the theme of this year's festival is kizuna, which means the bonds or connections between people.
"It's a timely reminder that we are all in this together. The community has been able to navigate through the evolving pandemic because of the strong friendships and camaraderie," said Brodie.
Participants can view the cherry blossoms live through Weekly Blossom Reports. Online visitors can also follow @FunRichmond on Instagram to check out the latest cherry blossom stories every Saturday until April 16.
The online programming can be found at www.richmondcherryblossomfest.ca and will be organized into five virtual tents:
• The Sakura Tent features welcome messages from Mayor Brodie, Consul General Takashi Hatori, the Consul General of Japan in Vancouver, and the festival directors, as well as recorded performances by taiko drummers and folk song singers.
• The Matsuri Tent offers a how-to demonstration for the perfect sushi cone.
• The Hanami Tent includes how-to videos for calligraphy, origami, a traditional tea ceremony, and crafts made by seniors.
• The Kitsuke Tent provides insight into kitsuke (kimono dressing).
• The Kuno Tent shares how-to videos for ikebana (flower arranging) and bonsai pruning.
For those visiting Garry Point Park in person, five kiosks will be located throughout Garry Point Park with QR codes direct to the virtual festival.
