The 51st Annual Denver Cherry Blossom Festival returns to Sakura Square in downtown Denver on June 21 and 22, 2025. This cherished community festival showcases Japanese heritage and culture through a rich variety of programming. The festival offers free admission and serves as the largest fundraiser for the Tri-State/Denver Buddhist Temple and Sakura Foundation operations.
Highlights
- Free two-day cultural celebration featuring live entertainment and authentic Japanese food at Sakura Square.
- Diverse performance lineup including taiko drumming groups and traditional music ensembles.
- Authentic Japanese cuisine – from teriyaki chicken bento boxes to traditional sweets.
Denver Cherry Blossom Festival
The Denver Cherry Blossom Festival is an annual event that will turn Sakura Square in downtown Denver into a colorful celebration of Japanese culture. This year, the festival will be held on Saturday from 11:00 to 6:00 pm, and from 11:00 to 4:00 pm on Sunday.
Marking its 51st year, the festival continues its tradition of delivering authentic Japanese cultural experiences. The festival relies on volunteer efforts from Temple members, Japanese American community members, and the general public.
Celebrating Japanese Traditions and Community Spirit
The festival stage hosts an impressive lineup of traditional and contemporary Japanese performances. Taiko drumming takes center stage with groups including Boulder Taiko, Denver Taiko, Mirai Daiko, One World Taiko, and Raku On Taiko delivering powerful rhythmic performances.
Martial arts demonstrations showcase Colorado Budokan karate, TS/DBT Judo Dojo, TS/DBT Aikido, and Shobukan Dojo classical Japanese martial arts. Cultural dance performances feature TS/DBT Minyokai Japanese folk dance and Lei Hulu Hawaiian traditional dance.
Musical entertainment includes Koto Colorado Japanese instrumental music, Masae Yonaiyama performances, and Sakura Kenhamo Company. Modern entertainment features Embelia Idols and Illuminate Dance Crew dance groups, plus TS/DBT Karaoke Enka Singing Group traditional country-blues style music.
Taste of Japan: Festival Eats and Drinks
Festival food vendors offer authentic Japanese cuisine throughout Sakura Square. Popular dishes include Teriyaki Chicken Bento for $15 with grilled chicken, rice, edamame, and cabbage salad.
Street food options feature Takoyaki octopus balls for $7 and Gyoza pork dumplings for $5. Traditional items include SPAM Musubi for $4 and Inari Sushi, five pieces for $10.
Sweet treats encompass Mochi Manju for $10 with sweet bean paste, Yaki Manju baked pastries for $10, and Dorayaki honey pancake sandwiches for $5. Unique offerings include Karma Korn furikake-flavored puff corn and Rice Crispy Sushi treats, both priced at $5.
Unique Finds and Community Impact
The marketplace has over 40 vendors selling a range of Japanese and Japanese-influenced items. They offer a variety of products from traditional crafts to contemporary anime accessories.
Handcrafted items include Origami by Kannika jewelry and paper goods, Kimono Kreations vintage fabric accessories, and Tsuyosa Creations upcycled kimono bags. Art vendors like Ukiyo-e Heroes sell traditional Japanese prints, while Charming Little Fox creates anime-inspired polymer clay jewelry.
Community organizations participate, including JASC Japan American Society of Colorado, JARCC Japanese American Resource Center, and JETAA Rocky Mountain. The Denver Public Library Bookmobile provides a welcoming community space and resources.
Essential Visitor Information
The festival takes place at Sakura Square in downtown Denver. Free admission makes this cultural celebration accessible to all community members and visitors.
Attendees can reserve convenient parking through SpotHero’s dedicated Sakura Square parking page. The festival encourages advance parking reservations for the best rates and availability.
The Denver Cherry Blossom Festival festivities celebrate and honor Japanese tradition through authentic experiences. The free community event includes traditional art, delicious cuisine, and shopping opportunities at the festival.
