Downtown Akron Sakura Festival
– hosted across the vibrant Ohio & Erie Canalway Towpath Trail in Downtown Akron, Ohio
When: Annual Festival – First Saturday in April from 1:pm to 9:pm
Mark your calendars and come join us for a beautiful spring day in downtown Akron to welcome spring in style at the Downtown Akron Sakura Festival, a lively celebration of cherry blossoms and community spirit! On the first Saturday in April, join us for an unforgettable day filled with food, music, arts, and fun for everyone! The festival is FREE and open to all, so bring your family, friends, and neighbors for a fantastic time! Whether you’re here for the blooms, the bites, or the beats, the Downtown Akron Sakura Festival promises to be a day of joy and celebration!
🌸 Festival Highlights
Beautiful Cherry Blossoms – Stroll the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, where over 400 cherry trees planted along the way will be bursting into bloom, signaling the arrival of spring.
Live Music & Performances – Enjoy live entertainment at Lock 3, the Maynard Performance Pavilion, and other festival hubs, featuring music, dance, and more!
Vibrant Vendors & Local Crafts – Explore unique handmade goods from local artisans and indulge in delicious food from diverse vendors. It’s the perfect spot for a spring shopping spree!
Family-Friendly Fun – Participate in fun and free activities along the trail. There’s something for everyone, from crafts and games to canal history at the Mustill Store.
🌸 Explore Festival Hubs:
- Williams Tower (Southern Hub): Home to some of the most stunning cherry blossoms, this is where the festival begins, offering beautiful views and live entertainment.
- Spaghetti Warehouse (Trailhead): Enjoy tasty food, exciting vendors, and performances at this central hub.
- Locks 2 & 3: Walk through the heart of the festival, with stunning cherry blossom trees, canal-inspired seating areas, and vibrant activities. At Lock 3, experience the lively atmosphere with music, food, and crafts at the newly renovated Lock 3.
- Mustill Store & Cascade Locks (Northern Hub): Finish your walk at the historic Mustill Store, where you’ll discover more blossoms, local food, and fascinating canal history.
🌸 Special Events:
- Akron History Center Grand Opening (Saturday, April 5, 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM): Explore Akron’s rich history at the new Akron History Center. Free admission and exciting exhibits await!
- Light the Locks (Saturday, April 5, 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM): Join the Akron Bicentennial for a stunning lantern-lighting ceremony at Lock 2. Celebrate new beginnings, remember loved ones, and unite in community spirit.
- Whether you’re here for the blooms, the bites, or the beats, the Downtown Akron Sakura Festival promises to be a day of joy and celebration! Mark your calendars and come join us for a beautiful spring day in downtown Akron! 🌸
- Pre-festival Guided Bike Ride – Enjoy a scenic ride before the festival kicks off.
- Horticulturalist Walk & Talk – Learn about the beauty and care of cherry blossoms and other plants.
- Live Performances – Enjoy music, dance, and more throughout the festival hubs.
- Food Vendors & Food Trucks – Indulge in delicious local eats while you explore.
- Sip & Learn: Sake and Sushi Tasting – Explore the delicate flavors of Japan’s traditional drink and cuisine.
- Chado: Japanese Tea Ceremony – Experience the elegance and beauty of this ancient Japanese tradition.
- Japanese Tea-Making – Discover the art of crafting tea in the Japanese style.Local Vendors – Support local businesses and explore a variety of handmade goods.
- Crafts and Art Demonstrations – Watch talented artists create beautiful works and discover new artistic techniques.
- Story and History Walks – Learn about Akron’s rich history while strolling along the Towpath Trail.
- Paint in the Park: Guided Painting with Street Craftery – Unleash your creativity with a guided painting session in the park
- Bicentennial Light the Locks – Join the Akron Bicentennial for a stunning lantern-lighting ceremony at Lock 2. Celebrate new beginnings, remember loved ones, and unite in community spirit.
