Mother Nature seemed to finally realize it was spring this past Sunday just in time for the two biggest Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival events.  The sakura was in full bloom and the rain stayed away as 280 runners and walkers gathered in the early morning for the Cherry Blossom 5K.  Men’s winner, Yorito Nakata blazed through finishing in just under 18 minutes (17:58) and women’s winner, Justyna Wilson came in just a minute later with a time of 19:04.  The competition was spirited, but not everyone was in such a hurry.  Many walkers opted for a leisurely stroll while taking in the scenery.  Thanks to everyone who participated and to our sponsors Rohto-Mentholatum and Philadelphia Insurance Companies for making the event a success.  The results are now available on the Cherry Blossom 5K event page.

Just as the 5K was ending, Sakura Sunday was beginning.  Participants were able to begin their day in the craft area even before the opening ceremonies – creating origami and practicing shodo (calligraphy).  Many opted to visit the vendor tents or to secure prime spaces near the main stage.  The opening ceremony featured remarks by dignitaries including Mayor Michael Nutter, Ambassador Hiroki, and Honorary Consul General of Japan in Philadelphia, Dennis Morikawa.  Subaru of America COO, Tom Doll, introduced a group of students from St. Elizabeth’s school who presented 1000 paper cranes in honor of the victims of the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami.  The stage program was rounded out by a performance by the Children’s Chorus from the Japanese Language School of Philadelphia and a ceremonial tree planting.

Following the ceremony Rio Koike, emcee for the day, regaled the audience with a combination of magic, comedy and dancing while introducing the acts.  Ever the crowd favorite, Tamagawa University Taiko Drum and Dance Group performed two sets of intricate and amusing dances on top of their powerful taiko pieces.  They were joined on stage by newcomers 10tecomai Yosakoi and Salme who brought their own energy and styles to the Festivities.  Also on the stage were two presentations: the Harajuku Fashion Show and the Zenkaikon Cosplay Contest.  Both brought a measure of color and style while featuring eye-popping designs.

At the sundial, animal enthusiasts crowded for the Prettiest Pet in Pink contest which featured a number of adorable dogs in costumes of their own.  There was at least one with pink fur and another in a tiny doggie kimono.  On the second stage, martial arts groups demonstrated an array of styles, including aikido, karate, swordsmanship and ninjutsu.  Vendors along the reflecting pool were selling traditional and pop culture goodies or conducting contests and giveaways.  In addition to our regulars, Maido and Festival Food Management, new food vendors this year included local restaurants, Zento and Maru Global, who prepared sushi and Japanese festival foods.

Inside the Horticulture Center, aside from origami and calligraphy was kite making, a “go” tutorial, ikebana (flower arranging) demonstration, and shiatsu massage.  The display house room was a hub of activity with an array of disaster relief fundraisers, face-painting and singing.

It was an action-packed Sakura Sunday drawing just under 10,000 visitors.  We hope that those of you who attended had a wonderful time and that those of you who missed it will join us in 2012.  The Subaru Cherry Blossom Festival continues this week with a few more events.  Check back later for updates and announcements!