The arrival of spring in New Jersey means the arrival of beautiful cherry blossoms. There are several festivals across the state and so many places in New Jersey where you can see cherry blossoms. It’s actually one of my favorite things to do in the spring time. Each festival provides a memorable experience and a unique cherry blossom display. I’ve put together a guide below on the top cherry blossom festivals in New Jersey that you can visit.
When can you see cherry blossoms in New Jersey?
If you are wondering when you can see cherry blossoms in New Jersey, it does vary each year depending on the weather. However, you can usually see them in early spring from late March to early April. Cherry blossom trees have a short blooming season of one to two weeks so sometimes it can be tricky finding the perfect time to visit when it is peak bloom! I recommend checking the park or garden website to be up to date on when they are in full bloom.
Top Cherry Blossom Festivals in New Jersey
Branch Brook Park
One of the best places and most beautiful cherry blossom festivals in New Jersey is Branch Brook Park in Newark. Their annual Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival features more than 5,200 Japanese cherry blossom trees. It actually is one of the largest collection of cherry trees in the United States (yes – even more than Washington DC!). I love that they have a mix of pink and white cherry blossoms.
In addition to the cherry blossoms, visitors can also enjoy a variety of events such as live performances and cultural and family-friendly activities. Some of the activities of the festival include various races like the Cherry Blossom Challenge Bike Race, Cherry Blossom 10K Run, Essex County Family Day, and the 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk. You can race through the historic cherry tree groves and experience the natural beauty of the cherry blossoms in a special way. They also have a “Bloomfest” which includes live music, children’s activities, crafters, and Japanese cultural demonstrations.
Frelinghuysen Arboretum
Frelinghuysen Arboretum is one of the top cherry blossom locations in New Jersey. It is located in Morristown, NJ and open daily. They have 124 acres of woodlands, meadows, and gardens that surround a colonial mansion. It’s a beautiful property to explore in the spring time.
Hurd Park
Hurd Park is located in Dover, NJ and it’s a great place to visit during cherry blossom season. You will find an incredible row of cherry blossoms along a stream, with an adorable bridge and gazebo. Perfect for photos!
New Jersey Botanical Gardens
The New Jersey Botanical Garden is part of Ringwood State Park in Ringwood, NJ. It includes 96 acres of gardens surrounded by 1000 acres of woodlands. They are great to visit year-round, but it’s an amazing place to visit in the spring. You can find cherry blossoms in their perennial garden and they also have a lilac, wildflower, and rhododendron garden. When you visit, you can also go on one of their garden and Manor house tours.
Reeves-Reed Arboretum
The Reeves-Reed Arboretum is a botanical garden located in Summit, NJ that is a popular spot to visit cherry blossoms. Throughout their 13.5 acres of gardens and 6 acres of forest, you will find their historic and contemporary gardens and a mile of trails to explore. This smaller scale festival allows visitors to appreciate the beauty of cherry blossoms while participating in guided tours, workshops, and live music events.
Verona Park
Verona Park is located in Verona, NJ and is part of the Essex County Department of Parks system. It is a 54 acre park with a beautiful lake. You can take a walk around the lake to see the cherry blossoms and weeping willow trees.
Warinanco Park
Warinanco Park is located in Union County, NJ in both Roselle and Elizabeth. It is a local park that I grew up going to. I love visiting every year and walking through the trails of gorgeous blooming trees.
Divine Park in Spring Lake
Divine Park in Spring Lake, NJ is a beautiful park to see cherry blossoms in New Jersey. It is a 16 acre park with a freshwater lake, making it a perfect photo moment to capture the cherry blossoms.
Sayen House and Gardens
Sayen House and Gardens is located in the historic Hamilton Square in Hamilton, NJ. It’s an incredible little hidden gem and a peaceful location to just stroll though to see the cherry blossoms. You will also find a bridge and fountain that makes a great photoshoot location.
Cherry Blossom Festivals near New Jersey
If you are looking for cherry blossom festivals outside of New Jersey, here are some great parks and gardens to visit:
Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival Of Greater Philadelphia
If you are near the Philadelphia area, you have to check out their annual cherry blossom festival. It is a celebration of Japanese culture and arts organized by the Japan America Society of Greater Philadelphia. The festival includes cultural activities, music performances, vendors, crafts, and more!
Central Park
New York City is so close to New Jersey that I had to include Central Park on the list! Their cherry blossom festival looks absolutely beautiful and it can make a great day trip! You can find the cherry blossoms mainly between 72nd Street and 96th Street.
Brooklyn Botanical Garden
If you don’t want to go into the city, another great New York option to see cherry blossoms is the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. You can enjoy fun garden experiences in the Japanese Hill and Pond Garden, Cherry Walk, Cherry Esplanade, Cherry Cultivars Area, and Osborne Garden.
If you are looking for more beautiful flower fields to check out in New Jersey,
check out more of my posts below!
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