Cherry Blossoms on Roosevelt Island

Hundreds of cherry trees in full bloom on Roosevelt Island

Brooklyn Rite of Spring

The annual celebration of cherry blossoms and Japanese culture took place a week ago at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Cherry blossoms (sakura) had become the celebrated spring flower at the garden where visitors can enjoy over 200 Japanese flowering cherry trees of over 30 different species and cultivars. In addition to "hanami" or flower viewing, visitors of all ages can enjoy music, workshops, and crafts that celebrate the culture of Japan and cherry blossoms.