2016 Event Information
Join us June 4 at Como Park!
- Planting two additional cherry trees in Como Park
- Performance by the Sansei Yonsei Kai Dancers
- Taiko drumming from the Taiko Collaborative
- Councilperson Amy Brendmoen, guest speaker
- Japanese cherry blossom themed refreshments
- Children’s craft activities: water color, cherry blossom branch making, and more
Volunteers
Volunteers are always needed in a variety of functions to assist in the planning and execution of events. Total time commitment varies depending on how involved you wish to be!
History
In 2012, the 100th anniversary of the gift of cherry trees to Washington, DC, the Japanese government generously donated groups of twenty cherry trees to thirty-six American cities. St. Paul was chosen in large part because of the almost 60 year history of being sister city with Nagasaki. Bill Pesek, SPNSCC board member and landscape architect with the Parks and Recreation Department, arranged for them to be planted near the Mannheimer Memorial in Como Park, beginning to tie the Global Harmony Labyrinth, the restored lily pond, and the Charlotte Ordway Memorial Japanese Garden together. The trees were planted and dedicated on June 9, 2012. Honored guests included Ichiro Sawada, Deputy Consul from Chicago, Representative Betty McCollum, plus city council members, former Mayor George Latimer, and Mayor Coleman. Sansei Yonsei Kai performed two sakura dances. Leo Hansen performed the shakuhachi flute at the ceremony and guests greeted at the Japanese Garden by western flute player Ryusuke Jono.
Cherry Blossom Viewing in Japan
More to come!