Sakura: Cherry Blossoms In High Park

After months of hibernation, spring has finally sprung in Toronto! And I don’t know about you, but I’m incredibly excited to get outside and take it all in. First on my list is a visit to High Park to admire the ethereal cherry blossoms. It has become somewhat of an annual tradition of mine and since the bloom happens so fast (the flowers usually appear and disappear within a week), I have to be ready to drop by at a moment’s notice. Thankfully, someone set up a Facebook page to report on the status of the blossoms. Amazing, right? It looks like the beauties have started to bloom!

I can’t wait to visit this week. There’s always such a beautiful energy in the park; families picnicking, artist painting and friends snapping photos of the freshly opened blossoms…

I love laying underneath the trees and staring up at the flowers. They’re so transient yet magnificent at the same time…

I felt like I was transported to San Francisco in the 60s when I visited last year (watch my short video below and you’ll see what I mean):

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dgjwvxVYwsA

I highly recommend taking the time to visit High Park in the next week or so. It’s truly a breathtaking experience!

Before you go, here are some tips:

• Take the TTC or walk to the park. Traffic and parking are a nightmare.
• Don’t forget your camera! The trees are a beautiful backdrop for family photos.

• There are many other trees blossoming at the same time so don’t forget to visit them too!

• Pack a picnic and stay to enjoy the scenery.
• There are only 30 or so Somei Yoshino cherry trees in High Park and most of them are at Hillside Gardens by the restaurant.
• Although it may be tempting, please don’t break off any flowers or branches.
• Try to visit on a weekday if you can. But if you’re okay with crowds, the long weekend will likely draw many excited visitors and will make for great energy in the park.