15 Best Spots: Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Vancouver

Ever walked under a tunnel of pink petals? Every spring, Vancouver’s cherry blossoms transform the city into a floral wonderland—but timing is everything. These delicate blooms peak fast, and missing them is easy.

I’ve spent years tracking the best spots and perfect bloom times so you don’t have to. In this guide, you’ll get insider tips on where to see cherry blossoms in Vancouver, when to go, and what to do nearby.

Let’s start with one of the most peaceful spots in the city—Nitobe Memorial Garden. 🌸

1. Nitobe Memorial Garden at UBC

Tucked away on the UBC campus, Nitobe Memorial Garden is one of Vancouver’s most peaceful places to see cherry blossoms. This traditional Japanese garden is designed to reflect the changing seasons, and when the cherry blossoms bloom in early April, the entire space feels like something out of Kyoto.

The garden features Somei-Yoshino and Shirotae cherry trees, both of which create a stunning white and soft pink canopy over the winding stone paths and koi pond. Every element here—from the tea house to the carefully raked gravel—is meant to represent harmony with nature.

📍 Address: 1895 Lower Mall, Vancouver, BC
🚗 Parking: The closest parking is at the Rose Garden Parkade (6278 Marine Dr, Vancouver, BC). From there, it’s a 5-minute walk to the entrance.
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early April (blooms typically last one to two weeks)

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• Museum of Anthropology – A must-visit for Indigenous art and history lovers.
• UBC Rose Garden – Another fantastic flower-filled stop, especially later in spring.

This spot is perfect if you’re looking for a quiet, reflective cherry blossom experience. If you visit early in the morning, you might even have the garden to yourself—just you, the gentle rustling of blossoms, and the soft sounds of the pond.

2. Ambleside Park, West Vancouver

If you love cherry blossoms with ocean views, Ambleside Park is a must-visit. Nestled along West Vancouver’s waterfront, this park offers a stunning mix of pink blooms, sandy beaches, and mountain backdrops—a picture-perfect spot for a springtime stroll.

The park features Somei-Yoshino cherry trees, known for their soft white blossoms that peak in early to mid-April. Walk along the West Vancouver Seawall under the blossoms, or grab a seat on a driftwood log and enjoy the view of Stanley Park and downtown Vancouver across the water.

📍 Address: 1150 Marine Dr, West Vancouver, BC
🚗 Parking: Free parking lots throughout the park
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early to mid-April

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

3. Deep Cove, North Vancouver

If you’re looking for a cherry blossom experience away from the crowds, Deep Cove is a hidden gem. As someone who has explored cherry blossom spots across Vancouver for years, I always love coming here for its perfect mix of nature, ocean views, and spring blooms.

In early April, Akebono cherry trees line Gallant Avenue and Panorama Park, their soft pink petals fluttering against the backdrop of the mountains and calm waters of Indian Arm.

The reflections of cherry blossoms on the water make this spot one of the most peaceful places to enjoy the season. Unlike some of the busier locations, Deep Cove offers a quieter, more immersive experience, making it a top pick for those who want to truly soak in the beauty of spring.

📍 Address: 4360 Gallant Ave, North Vancouver, BC V7G 1L2
🚗 Parking: Free and paid parking is available, but it fills up fast—arrive early
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early April

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• Honey Doughnuts & Goodies – A Deep Cove classic for doughnuts
• Quarry Rock Trail – A short hike with stunning views of Indian Arm

Pro Tip: Grab a coffee and a doughnut, then take a leisurely stroll under the cherry blossoms along the waterfront. If you time it right, you’ll catch the petals drifting into the water—a moment that feels straight out of a postcard. 🌸

4. Queen Elizabeth Park

Standing at the highest point in Vancouver, Queen Elizabeth Park offers a breathtaking mix of cherry blossoms and skyline views.

This spot isn’t just about the blooms—it’s about the full experience. Every year, I make it a point to visit at peak bloom in early April, because there’s nothing quite like seeing the cherry trees explode in pink against the city skyline.

The park is home to Akebono and Kanzan cherry trees, which bloom in two waves—Akebono first in early April, followed by Kanzan’s rich pink, double-petaled blossoms in mid to late April. The best spot? The entrance is near the Bloedel Conservatory, where rows of blossoms create an enchanting floral tunnel.

📍 Address: 4600 Cambie St, Vancouver, BC
🚗 Parking: Paid parking throughout the park
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early to mid-April

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• Bloedel Conservatory – A lush tropical escape with exotic birds
• Seasons in the Park – A restaurant with some of the best panoramic views in Vancouver

Pro Tip: Visit during the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival to experience cultural events, guided walks, and live performances under the blossoms. And if you go at golden hour, you’ll see the sunset light up the cherry blossoms and the city skyline—truly one of the most stunning views of spring in Vancouver. 🌸

5. Granville Square

Tucked away near Waterfront Station, Granville Square is a hidden gem for cherry blossom viewing in downtown Vancouver. The contrast between the soft pink blossoms and the modern city skyline makes this one of my favourite lesser-known spots to visit in spring.

If you’re in the area, it’s worth stopping by for a quick yet breathtaking bloom experience.

Back when I worked downtown, I’d often walk to Granville Square on my lunch break, just to sit under the canopy of Akebono cherry blossoms while looking out at the Burrard Inlet and the North Shore mountains.

There was something about watching the seaplanes take off while petals drifted down around me that made this spot feel like a secret escape in the middle of the city.

You’ll find Akebono cherry trees lining the walkways near the plaza, blooming in early April. It’s a peaceful place to take in the blossoms while enjoying views of the North Shore mountains, the Vancouver Harbour, and passing seaplanes.

📍 Address: 200 Granville St, Vancouver, BC
🚗 Parking: Paid parking is available at Waterfront Station (601 W Cordova St, Vancouver, BC)
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early April

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• Waterfront Station & Seawall – Take a cherry blossom stroll along the waterfront
• Gastown – Just a short walk away, perfect for grabbing coffee or exploring historic streets

Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday morning to avoid the rush hour crowd and enjoy a quiet moment under the blossoms. 🌸

6. Burrard SkyTrain Station

If you’re looking for one of the most iconic cherry blossom spots in downtown Vancouver, Burrard SkyTrain Station is it. Every spring, the plaza outside the station explodes in soft pink Akebono cherry blossoms, creating a breathtaking contrast against the surrounding skyscrapers.

Back when I used to commute downtown, this was my favourite springtime surprise—stepping off the SkyTrain and being greeted by a canopy of delicate pink blossoms right in the heart of the city.

Whether I was rushing to work or taking a break in the plaza, I always made time to pause and take it in. It’s a reminder that even in the middle of the city, nature finds a way to steal the spotlight.

The blossoms here typically peak in early April, and with the high foot traffic from commuters, they don’t last long—so timing your visit is key!

📍 Address: 635 Burrard St, Vancouver, BC
🚗 Parking: Paid parking nearby at Park Place Parkade (660 Hornby St, Vancouver, BC)
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early April

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• Robson Street – A short walk away to enjoy shopping and dining
• Vancouver Art Gallery – Perfect for pairing cherry blossom viewing with culture

Pro Tip: Come in the early morning before the city wakes up when the plaza is quieter and the blossoms catch the golden sunrise light. 🌸

7. Coal Harbour Park

If you love cherry blossoms with waterfront views, Coal Harbour Park is a must-visit. Nestled between downtown Vancouver and Stanley Park, this spot offers a peaceful escape where soft pink Akebono cherry blossoms frame the stunning backdrop of the harbour, mountains, and passing yachts.

I used to come here on quiet spring mornings, grabbing a coffee and taking a moment to watch the blossoms flutter down onto the seawall as cyclists and joggers passed by. It always felt like one of the most underrated places to see cherry blossoms in Vancouver, with just the right balance of city energy and nature’s beauty.

The Akebono cherry trees bloom in early April, stretching along the pathways near Bayshore Drive and the seawall. Unlike the busier downtown locations, this area has a more relaxed atmosphere, making it perfect for a scenic stroll or a peaceful spot to sit and take in the view.

📍 Address: 480 Broughton St, Vancouver, BC V6G 3H4
🚗 Parking: Paid parking is available at the WestPark Lot (1675 Bayshore Dr, Vancouver, BC)
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early April

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• Stanley Park Seawall – A scenic walk or bike ride under more cherry blossoms
• Cardero’s Restaurant – A great waterfront spot for food and drinks

Pro Tip: Bring a takeaway coffee from a nearby café and grab a bench by the water—it’s the perfect way to enjoy cherry blossoms with a view. 🌸

8. East 3rd Avenue (Between Rupert and Skeena)

For a cherry blossom tunnel that feels straight out of a dream, head to East 3rd Avenue between Rupert and Skeena. This hidden gem in East Vancouver offers a breathtaking stretch of Akebono cherry trees, their delicate pink blooms arching over the street to form a canopy of flowers.

I first stumbled upon this spot while exploring lesser-known cherry blossom locations, and it immediately became one of my favourite hidden gems.

Walking under the blossoms as the petals drift down around you feels almost cinematic—especially with the golden domes of the Akali Singh Sikh Temple peeking through the blooms in the distance.

On a clear day, you’ll even catch glimpses of the rapidly rising Burnaby skyline beyond the blossoms, adding a modern contrast to this floral wonder.

📍 Address: East 3rd Avenue (Between Rupert St & Skeena St), Vancouver, BC
🚗 Parking: Free street parking is available, but spots fill up quickly during peak bloom
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early April

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• Rupert Park – A quiet green space just a short walk away
• Boundary Road Cafés – Grab a coffee or a treat at one of the small, locally loved spots along Boundary

Pro Tip: Visit in the morning or just before sunset for soft lighting that makes the cherry blossoms glow—and to avoid the midday traffic! 🌸

9. Yew Street & West 22nd Avenue

If you love quiet, tree-lined streets bursting with cherry blossoms, Yew Street & West 22nd Avenue is a must-visit. This stretch in Arbutus Ridge offers eight straight blocks of Akebono cherry trees, creating a picture-perfect tunnel of pink and white blooms in early April.

I first discovered this spot while exploring lesser-known cherry blossom streets, and it immediately became one of my favourite places to take a peaceful spring walk. Unlike the busier festival locations, this street has a serene, almost storybook-like atmosphere, where you can stroll under a canopy of blossoms without the crowds.

📍 Address: Yew St & W 22nd Ave, Vancouver, BC
🚗 Parking: Free street parking is available, but can be limited during peak bloom
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early April

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• Arbutus Greenway – A scenic walking and cycling path lined with spring flowers
• Kokomo Café – A cozy plant-based café, perfect for a post-blossom latte

Pro Tip: Visit on a weekday morning for quiet, uninterrupted cherry blossom photos—it’s one of the most underrated spots for spring photography in Vancouver. 🌸

10. Riverview Hospital Grounds (səmiq̓ʷəʔelə) – Coquitlam

For a cherry blossom experience away from the crowds, the Riverview Hospital Grounds—now officially known as səmiq̓ʷəʔelə—is a hidden gem in Coquitlam.

This historic site, once home to British Columbia’s largest psychiatric hospital, is now a publicly accessible green space with towering trees, quiet walking paths, and stunning rows of mature cherry blossoms that bloom in early April.

I first visited səmiq̓ʷəʔelə out of curiosity, drawn by its heritage buildings and peaceful atmosphere, but I was blown away by the cherry blossoms. Walking under the arching pink canopies with the historic structures in the background felt like discovering a forgotten garden frozen in time.

Unlike the city’s busier blossom locations, this spot offers a quiet, almost ethereal experience—perfect for reflection, photography, or simply soaking in the beauty of spring.

📍 Address: 2601 Lougheed Hwy, Coquitlam, BC V3C 4J2
🚗 Parking: Free parking available on-site
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early April

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• Colony Farm Regional Park – A peaceful spot for birdwatching and nature walks
• Coquitlam’s Brewery District – Great for post-blossom coffee, food, or drinks

Pro Tip: Visit just before sunset—the golden light filtering through the blossoms and historic buildings makes for stunning, moody photos. 🌸

Important Note: səmiq̓ʷəʔelə is open to the public daily from 6 AM to 9 PM. While some buildings are restricted, all outdoor areas are open for visitors to explore. Stick to designated paths and respect the site’s heritage significance.

11. Sunset Beach Park

For a cherry blossom experience with ocean views, Sunset Beach Park is an underrated gem. Located along Vancouver’s iconic seawall, this spot offers a serene mix of cherry blossoms, sandy beaches, and waterfront scenery, making it a must-visit during peak bloom in early April.

I’ve always loved coming here in the spring—not just for the blossoms, but for the relaxed, peaceful vibe. Unlike the busier parks, Sunset Beach Park feels like a quiet retreat, where you can sit on a log, watch the waves roll in, and enjoy the delicate pink cherry blossoms swaying in the breeze.

The contrast between the pale pink petals and the deep blue ocean is absolutely stunning, especially on a sunny day.

📍 Address: 1204 Beach Ave, Vancouver, BC
🚗 Parking: Paid parking available along Beach Avenue and at nearby lots
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early April

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• English Bay Beach – A short walk away, with more cherry trees and great sunset views
• Granville Island Ferry Dock – Take a scenic ferry ride across False Creek

Pro Tip: Bring a picnic or grab takeout from a nearby café and enjoy a cherry blossom picnic by the water—it’s one of the best ways to experience Vancouver’s spring magic. 🌸

12. Burnaby Mountain Park, Burnaby

For cherry blossoms with a view, Burnaby Mountain Park is a must-visit. Perched high above the city, this park offers sweeping views of downtown Vancouver, the Burrard Inlet, and the North Shore mountains, all framed by delicate pink cherry blossoms in early April.

I remember the first time I visited during peak bloom—the soft pink petals against the backdrop of the mountains was breathtaking. Walking through the park, I couldn’t help but pause under the blossoms, just taking in the stillness and beauty of spring.

It’s the perfect spot for a quiet stroll, a scenic picnic, or some incredible cherry blossom photography.

You’ll find Akebono cherry trees scattered throughout the park, with some of the best clusters near the Kamui Mintara (Playground of the Gods) sculptures—a collection of Japanese totem-like carvings that add a unique cultural element to the landscape.

📍 Address: 100 Centennial Way, Burnaby, BC
🚗 Parking: Free parking available on-site
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early to mid-April

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• Simon Fraser University (SFU) – Just a short drive away, great for architecture lovers
• Barnet Marine Park – A scenic waterfront park perfect for a post-blossom walk

Pro Tip: Visit at sunset for golden light hitting the cherry blossoms and the mountains in the background—it’s one of the most underrated cherry blossom photo spots in Metro Vancouver. 🌸

13. Cherry Blossom Garden (Off Lougheed Highway, Burnaby)

Tucked away just a block from the busy Lougheed Highway, Cherry Blossom Garden is one of Burnaby’s best-kept spring secrets. This small but stunning park bursts into bloom every April, with cherry trees forming a tunnel of pink and white blossoms over the pathways.

It’s the kind of place that feels like a hidden oasis—peaceful, quiet, and completely removed from the rush of the city.

I used to work nearby and would spend my breaks and lunches under these blossoms, taking in the tranquillity of the park. You’d never guess that you were just steps away from a major highway—it always felt like a secret retreat where I could reset and recharge.

📍 Address: 1899 Rosser Ave, Burnaby, BC
🚗 Parking: Free street parking available nearby
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early to mid-April

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• Brentwood Town Centre – Just a short walk away, perfect for coffee or a post-blossom stroll
• Confederation Park – A great spot for an extended nature walk

Pro Tip: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon—the soft lighting makes the blossoms glow, and you’ll have the park almost to yourself. 🌸

14. Garden City Park – Richmond

If you’re looking for cherry blossoms in Richmond, Garden City Park is a must-visit. This peaceful urban park is home to beautiful rows of Akebono cherry trees, which create a dreamy pink canopy in early April. With its serene walking trails, open green spaces, and small pond, it’s a perfect spot for a quiet springtime stroll.

I used to stop by here on my way through Richmond, taking a moment to sit under the blossoms and just breathe. Despite being in the middle of the city, it always felt calm and refreshing, as if the cherry blossoms turned the park into a little springtime escape.

📍 Address: 6620 Garden City Rd, Richmond, BC V6Y 2C9
🚗 Parking: Free parking lot available on-site
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early April
🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• Minoru Park – Another beautiful green space with cherry trees, just a short drive away
• Richmond Centre Mall – Great for grabbing a coffee or a snack after your visit

Pro Tip: The best cherry blossom views are along the main walking loop near the pond—perfect for photos and quiet reflection. 🌸

15. Stanley Park – Rose Garden & Surrounding Areas

No cherry blossom season in Vancouver is complete without a visit to Stanley Park, and the Rose Garden is one of the park’s most stunning bloom spots. With over 3,500 rose bushes in summer, this area transforms into a pastel pink wonderland in early April, when the Akebono cherry trees burst into bloom.

I’ve walked through Stanley Park countless times, but there’s something special about spring mornings near the Rose Garden.

The way the cherry blossoms frame the city skyline, the petals drifting onto the garden paths, and the gentle ocean breeze make it feel like a scene from a painting. It’s one of the best places to truly immerse yourself in Vancouver’s cherry blossom season.

📍 Address: Stanley Park Rose Garden, Pipeline Rd, Vancouver, BC
🚗 Parking: Paid parking is available at the Stanley Park Pavilion Lot (610 Pipeline Rd, Vancouver, BC)
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Early April

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• Stanley Park Seawall – A perfect post-blossom walk along the waterfront
• Stanley Park Pavilion – A historic café where you can grab a coffee and soak in the spring atmosphere

Pro Tip: Walk beyond the Rose Garden—you’ll find even more cherry trees near the Japanese War Memorial for a quieter, hidden blossom experience. 🌸

16. David Lam Park – Yaletown

For a cherry blossom experience that blends urban energy with natural beauty, David Lam Park in Yaletown is a must-visit. Every spring, the park’s Akebono cherry trees burst into delicate pink blooms, creating a stunning contrast against the modern skyline and the waters of False Creek.

A highlight of the season is the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival’s “Blossoms After Dark” event, held annually in late March. During this enchanting three-night celebration, over 100 cherry trees are illuminated with string lights, lanterns, and projections, transforming the park into a luminous wonderland.

Attendees can enjoy live ambient music, mesmerizing bubble performances, and graceful flow dancers, and indulge in themed treats like glow cotton candy and pink popcorn.

📍 Address: 1300 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6Z 2Y1
🚗 Parking: Parking is limited; public transit, walking, or biking is strongly encouraged. The park is a short 4-7 minute walk from Yaletown-Roundhouse Station.
🌸 Best Time to Visit: Late March to early April; check the festival’s schedule for specific event dates.

🗺 Nearby Attractions:

• Yaletown Seawall: A scenic waterfront path perfect for a leisurely stroll.
• Yaletown Dining: Numerous restaurants and cafés offering a variety of cuisines.

Pro Tip: Arrive early to “Blossoms After Dark” to fully immerse yourself in the experience before the crowds arrive. Don’t forget your camera to capture the enchanting illuminated blossoms. 🌸water, making the cherry blossoms even more breathtaking. 🌸

Cherry Blossom Festivals and Events

The Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival will take place from March 28 to April 23, 2025, celebrating the arrival of spring and the city’s 43,000 cherry trees. This month-long festival is filled with art, culture, and community events, inviting everyone to enjoy the beauty of the fleeting Sakura season.

Key Events:

• Blossoms After Dark (March 28-30, 2025) – Held at David Lam Park, this three-night event transforms the park into a glowing nighttime wonderland, with illuminated cherry trees, live performances, interactive art, and food vendors.
• The Big Picnic (March 29, 2025) – A community gathering under 100 Akebono cherry trees at David Lam Park, featuring live music, cultural performances, and food vendors—bring a picnic and celebrate spring!
• Sakura Days Japan Fair (April 12-13, 2025) – Hosted at VanDusen Botanical Garden, this event immerses visitors in Japanese culture, with traditional tea ceremonies, kimono dressing, sake tastings, and performances of taiko drumming and samurai sword fighting.
• Haiku Invitational (March 1 – June 1, 2025) – An online haiku competition where poetry enthusiasts worldwide submit sakura-inspired haikus. Winning entries will be displayed during the festival.
• Tree Talks and Walks (Various Dates) – Expert-led cherry blossom walking tours across the city, teaching attendees about the history, significance, and species of Vancouver’s cherry trees.
• O-Hanami Festival at Nikkei National Museum (April 2025, Date TBA) – A Japanese cultural celebration in Burnaby, featuring traditional music, dance, tea ceremonies, and food vendors, all set under the cherry blossoms at the Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre.

For a full schedule and event details, visit the official Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival website.

Pro Tip: Some events are free, while others require tickets or pre-registration. Check the festival’s website early to plan your perfect cherry blossom experience! 🌸

Types of Cherry Blossoms in Vancouver

Vancouver’s cherry blossom season lasts from late February to early May, thanks to a variety of cherry tree species blooming at different times. Here are the most common ones you’ll see around the city:

Akebono (Prunus × yedoensis ‘Akebono’)

🌸 Bloom Time: Late March – Early April
🌸 What They Look Like: Soft pink, single-petaled flowers that fade to white as they mature.
🌸 Where to See Them: Queen Elizabeth Park, Stanley Park, Burrard SkyTrain Station

Akebono cherry trees are some of the most photographed in Vancouver. Their pale pink-to-white blossoms create that classic cotton candy look that makes the city feel like spring has officially arrived.

Kanzan (Prunus serrulata ‘Kanzan’)

🌸 Bloom Time: Mid to Late April
🌸 What They Look Like: Deep pink, double-petaled blossoms that grow in clusters.
🌸 Where to See Them: Graveley Street, West 16th Avenue, Queen Elizabeth Park

Kanzan cherry trees are easy to spot because of their bright pink, fluffy-looking flowers. They bloom later in the season, so if you missed the Akebono blossoms, you still have a chance to catch these.

Shirofugen (Prunus serrulata ‘Shirofugen’)

🌸 Bloom Time: Late April – Early May
🌸 What They Look Like: White blossoms that slowly turn pink before they fall.
🌸 Where to See Them: Granville Square, VanDusen Botanical Garden

These are some of the last cherry trees to bloom in Vancouver. What’s cool about Shirofugen is how the flowers change colour—starting out white, then turning pink as they mature.

Whitcomb (Prunus subhirtella ‘Whitcomb’)

🌸 Bloom Time: Late February – Mid-March
🌸 What They Look Like: Deep pink, single-petaled blossoms that appear before most other trees.
🌸 Where to See Them: Stanley Park, Mount Pleasant, Vancouver City Hall

Whitcomb cherries are the first trees to bloom every year. When you see these dark pink blossoms, you know spring is on the way!

Somei Yoshino (Prunus × yedoensis)

🌸 Bloom Time: Late March – Early April
🌸 What They Look Like: Five-petaled, almost white blossoms with a faint pink hue.
🌸 Where to See Them: Queen Elizabeth Park, Stanley Park Rose Garden

These trees are the most famous cherry blossom variety in Japan, and you’ll find plenty of them here too. They have a delicate, airy look, especially when planted in large groups.

History of Cherry Blossoms in Vancouver

Vancouver’s love for cherry blossoms started in the 1930s with a gift of 500 cherry trees from the mayors of Kobe and Yokohama, Japan. The trees were planted near the Japanese cenotaph in Stanley Park to honour Japanese Canadians who served in World War I.

🌸 More trees followed! In 1958, Japan gifted another 300 trees to symbolize friendship, leading to the stunning cherry-lined streets we see today, including Cambie Boulevard and Queen Elizabeth Park.

🌸 Why so many cherry trees? By the 1950s, the city shifted from planting large shade trees to smaller ornamental ones—which meant more cherries, plums, and flowering crabapples.

🌸 Enter the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival! Launched in 2005, the festival was created to celebrate the city’s 43,000 cherry trees and bring the community together. What started as a small gathering has grown into a month-long celebration of art, culture, and nature every spring.

Pro Tip: Many of Vancouver’s most famous cherry trees—like the ones at Stanley Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, and VanDusen Botanical Garden—trace back to these early plantings!

Other Spring Blooms

Cherry blossoms aren’t the only flowers to watch for in March. Tulips, daffodils, and magnolias also begin to appear, brightening up parks and gardens across the city.

• Tulip Season Kick-Off: While the main tulip festivals like the Harrison Tulip Festival peak later in spring, early blooms may start to show in local gardens or fields.
• Magnolias in Full Glory: These majestic blooms can be found in neighbourhoods like Shaughnessy and around the University of British Columbia.

For more inspiration and detailed locations, visit my post on Spring Blooms in Vancouver.

Tips for Making the Most of Cherry Blossom Season

🌸 Track the Blooms: Timing is everything! Use the Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival Bloom Map to stay updated on where trees are peaking. Blooms can last just a few days, so plan ahead.

🌸 Go Early for the Best Experience: Want that peaceful, petal-filled moment without the crowds? Head out in the early morning when the light is soft, the air is crisp, and the pathways are quiet.

🌸 Make a Day of It! Cherry blossoms pair perfectly with Vancouver’s best attractions—so why not turn your outing into an adventure?

• Queen Elizabeth Park → Granville Island – After the blossoms, grab lunch and explore the artisan markets.
• Stanley Park → North Vancouver – Walk the seawall, then ferry over for coffee with mountain views.
• VanDusen Botanical Garden → A Spring Hike – Enjoy the blooms, then hit the trails at Pacific Spirit Park or Capilano River.

Did You Know?

🌿 Vancouver has over 43,000 cherry trees, with many planted as a gift from Japan in the 1930s.
🎭 The Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival kicks off in late March with pre-festival events like guided walks and poetry contests before the full festival begins in April.

Pro Tips for Cherry Blossom Viewing

📍 Use the Map: The Cherry Blossom Festival Map helps you find blooming trees in real-time.

📸 Get the Best Photos: Visit early morning or golden hour (before sunset) for soft lighting, fewer people, and perfect shots.

🌸 Slow Down & Enjoy: Don’t rush! Take time to sit under the blossoms, listen to the breeze, and watch the petals fall—it’s part of the magic.