The 35th Annual Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival 2011

It might be a cold snowy winter for the people in Northern New Jersey, but the upcoming Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival is a welcome reminder that spring is just around the corner. The 35^th Annual Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival takes place in Branch Brook Park in Belleville and Newark New Jersey this April and is one of the largest displays of cherry blossom trees in the United States. For your convenience, here is a schedule of some of the events planned in Branch Brook Park as part of the Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival.

Monday April 4, 2011-Cherry Blossom Gala

The Branch Brook Park Alliance and Essex County Department of Parks join together for this fund raising event which takes place at the scenic Nanina's In The Park restaurant in Belleville. Ticket information available shortly here.

Saturday April 9, 2011-Bike Race

What better way to usher in spring than to pull out you bicycle and ride it around blooming cherry blossoms! Several different races are planned that morning. Cyclists who wish to participate need to fill out a registration form found here and pay the appropriate fees. However, spectators can come and watch the event for free.

Sunday April 10, 2011-Race Through the Park!

If you prefer racing through Branch Brook Park on two legs instead of two wheels, sign up for the 10K run, the 1 Mile Fun Run, or the Race For The Disabled. Register the day of the race at 8am. The Mile Fun Run starts at 9am. The 10K begins at 10am and the Disabled Run begins at 10:10am. A portion of the race proceeds will be donated to the Special Olympics. Registration forms can be found on the Essex NJ Blooms website. Spectators can watch the races for free.

April 12-14, 2011-Trolley Tours

See the beauty of Japanese Cherry Blossoms as you take a trolley tour through Branch Brook Park. The tours last 45 and seating is limited. Call 973-268-2300 to make a reservation. Donations are appreciated.

Sunday April 17, 2011-Bloomfest

A family fun day in the "Pink Park"! This free event will feature Japanese cultural demonstrations, crafts, live music, activities for children, and more. Most activities will take place around the welcome center between 11am-5pm. Children are encouraged to participate in the essay contest and write about "Why My Essex County Park Is Important To Me." Kids from 4^th to 7^th grade are eligible to enter. For an entry form, click here.

For some tips on heading to the Cherry Blossom Festival, click here.

Sources:

Essex NJ Blooms website.

Branch Brook Park Alliance website

Personal experience