Church Row Awash with Blooms

After 20 years, Waimea is still pretty in pink…blossoms. Saturday February 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Church Row will be awash with buds and blooms, entertainment, crafts, art, culture, food and more.

The delicate flowers of the cherry or Sakura trees have captivated an entire nation. In Japan, flower viewing or ohanami, is a highly anticipated culturally significant event.

People pack bentou lunches, drink sake, gather with friends, co-workers, family, and of course, take pictures.

It is simply tradition to steep in the beauty of spring and watch nature visually articulate a poetic transience, sweet purity and gentleness.

While we may not have the cold wintry days of other climes, Hawai’i still appreciates the cheer of gorgeous florals, which appear after the season of wet, dark and gloom, lift.

Sakura blossoms, photo by Aaron Hamasaki

Spend the day experiencing a traditional tea ceremony, origami and bonsai. Take a peek into some of Waimea’s historic homes, as they are open to the public for the annual event.

Pink banners that float like the cherry blooms throughout the little town, will identify festival sites.

Free transport will shuttle attendees to and from various points of interest.

The morning begins behind the Parker Ranch Center in the parking lot. Expect to see some special guests and performances.

Start the morning with a little Bon Dance and continue the day sampling the foods and Japanese culture.