Cherry Blossom Festival 2026 Returns with Bloomfest, Race& Family Fun

From Saturday, April 4 through Sunday, April 19, 2026, the annual Cherry Blossom Festival returns to Branch Brook Park, offering one of New Jersey’s most breathtaking signs of spring.

Located just a short drive from Harrison and easily accessible via the Clifton Avenue exit off Route 280 West, the festival features nearly three weeks of events surrounded by more than 5,000 cherry blossom trees in full bloom.

A Hidden Gem That Became a Regional Destination

The story behind Branch Brook Park’s iconic cherry blossoms dates back to the late 1920s, when Mrs. Caroline Bamberger Fuld was inspired by a trip to Japan and donated the first trees. Her initial gift of approximately 2,000 trees has since grown into the largest collection of cherry blossom trees in the United States.

Over the years, under the leadership of Essex County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo Jr. and the ongoing efforts of the Branch Brook Park Alliance, the festival has evolved into a major regional attraction.

What was once a “hidden gem” known mostly to locals has become a must-visit destination, drawing thousands of visitors each spring. The park’s transformation, and Newark’s continued resurgence, has helped change perceptions and bring new attention to one of the area’s most beautiful outdoor spaces. Branch Brook Park was designed by Olmstead who also designed NYC’s Central Park.  It is wonderful to see bicycle races through the winding roads of the park which were designed for horse drawn carriages.

🚴Cherry Blossom Challenge Bike Race – April 4

The festival kicks off on Saturday, April 4, 2026, with the Cherry Blossom Challenge Bike Race at the Northern Division Oval.

This official NJBA cycling event runs from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and features multiple race categories with cash prizes. Entry fees range from $20 to $50.

🏃 Cherry Blossom 10K Run – April 12

On Sunday, April 12, 2026, runners will take to the park for the Essex County Cherry Blossom 10K Coed Team Championship Run.

Participants will race through scenic cherry blossom-lined paths from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

• Pre-registration: $45 ($40 for USATF-NJ members)
• Race day registration: $50
• Packet pickup: 8:00 a.m. – 9:45 a.m. (same day, Welcome Center tent)
• A portion of the proceeds benefits Special Olympics New Jersey
• No refunds (all sales final)

👨‍👩‍Family Day & Fun Run – April 18

Saturday, April 18, 2026, brings family-friendly activities starting with the One-Mile Fun Run at 10:00 a.m., followed by Family Day at 11:00 a.m. at the Prudential Concert Grove.

This free event includes:

• Children’s activities and crafts
• Live entertainment
• Community programming for all ages

Families are encouraged to stay after the run to enjoy the full lineup of festivities.

🌸 Bloomfest! – April 19 (Grand Finale)

The festival concludes on Sunday, April 19, 2026, with Bloomfest—a full day of free cultural programming from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Highlights include:

• Japanese cultural demonstrations
• Live music and performances
• Artisan marketplace and food vendors

Featured performers include:

• Soh Daiko
• Cobu (Japanese Taiko Drumming & Dance Troupe)
• Masayo Ishigure & Miyabi Koto Shamisen Ensemble
• Taikoza
• Kuni Mikami & Tokyo Downtown

🎶 Prudential Concert Grove Schedule:

• 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.: TD Jazz for Teens Ensemble
• 12:15 p.m. – 12:45 p.m.: Samurai Sword Soul Demonstration
• 1:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.: Essex County Youth Orchestras
• 2:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.: Sachiyo Ito & Company Dance Performance

🌸 Learn More: Cultural & Educational Events

Throughout the festival, visitors can stop by the Cherry Blossom Welcome Center for “Cherry Blossom Talks,” held every Wednesday and Saturday. These sessions explore the cultural and historical significance of cherry blossoms.

Guests can also enjoy self-guided historic cell phone tours, offering an interactive way to learn about the park’s rich history.

🌸 A Spring Tradition Close to Home

The Branch Brook Park Cherry Blossom Festival is more than just a celebration of spring—it’s a showcase of community, culture, and natural beauty right in Essex County.

For residents of Harrison and the surrounding West Hudson area, it remains one of the most accessible and rewarding seasonal events—offering something for everyone, from competitive races to family outings and cultural experiences.

As the blossoms return once again, so does one of New Jersey’s most cherished spring traditions.

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