Written by Stacey Shigaya Photos by Glenn Asakawa and Justin Valas
Sakura Foundation Executive Director Gary Yamashita speaks at the 2016 Opening Ceremony.
“As vendors of the Denver Cherry Blossom Festival, we enjoy the community and how nice the organizers and staff are to us. They make sure our needs are met and they go above and beyond to ensure that we have everything to make the experience the best. Being part of this event allows us to show our work and share our message with the people of Denver, making this one of our best events. People should attend this festival because it is very well done and fun for everyone in the family.” – Alvin Ong, Furry Feline Creatives Karaoke Roulette is just one of the many new entertainment elements on the Live Stage. The schedule of performances will be posted on the festival website (www.cherryblossomdenver. org) to help plan your visit. While visitors soak in the entertainment and Denver sun, they can sip on specially crafted beers from Jagged Mountain Craft Brewery or try sake, a Japanese rice wine. Another popular feature of the Cherry Blossom Festival is the Marketplace. A variety of vendors with Japanese and Japanese-inspired merchandise will line Lawrence Street. Merchandise for sale includes t-shirts, jewelry, tote bags, clothing, mixed-media prints, ceramics, and anime items.
Kids of all ages can get crafty at the free Kids’ Craft Area at 19th and Larimer Streets. There they can learn Japanese words, make Cherry Blossom greeting cards, and have fun with other crafts. Want to take home a free souvenir from the festival? Just post a message about the Cherry Blossom Festival on social media, go to the Sakura Foundation booth in the marketplace, and show your post! The coordinators and volunteers are working hard to bring Denver another outstanding Cherry Blossom Festival! Mark your calendars for June 24th and 25th and visit www.cherryblossom denver.org for details and the final performance schedule.
The Marketplace on Lawrence Street will be filled with returning and new vendors.
Attendees watch cultural performances.
Denver Buddhist Temple Judo takes place on the Live Stage.
2017 Cherry Blossom Festival | asian avenue magazine
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