LET’S HAVE A HANAMI PARTY!

Saturday, April 19, 3:00-4:00 pm

Pearce Shelter, by Pearce Mill Road

Up on the hill from Boathouse parking

Dear Sakura friends,

I went to Washington DC to see their sakura blossom for the first time in 35 years on April 10.  Somei Yoshino, white with hint of pink, were in full bloom not only at the Tidal Basin, but also all over the capital area.  Some of the original trees, over 100 years old, are still going strong, but the National Arboretum, which grows Yoshino from suckers of original trees as well as many other varieties of sakura have been replacing dead trees and planting anew.

Our sakura in North Park usually bloom two weeks after DC’s.  At HANAMI, sakura viewing party, on Saturday, April 19, we will see some early blooms, such as crimson red okame and weeping cherries. Yoshino is budding. The beautiful pink doubled layered accolades on the hill toward the boathouse will be blooming soon. We predict our viewing season will lasts two weeks thanks to cooler temperatures and eight varieties compared to only one week in Washington DC. Come and take photos!

We will serve a Japanese sweet and a bowl of macha tea (suggested donation $3).  Gather your family and friends. Bring your picnic under the blossoms (no alcohol, due to County Park regulations).

Yoko Motoyama