SAKURA MATSURI (Cherry Blossom Festival)

Wednesday 24 September – Sunday 28 September 2008

Sakura Matsuri is a major event held annually in Cowra, in which many locals, Australian and International visitors have the opportunity to experience and learn traditional elements of the Japanese culture.

This year’s Sakura Matsuri incorporates some new and exciting changes designed to attract families and school-aged children. The emphasis is on involvement and education with workshops featuring traditional Japanese crafts such as Origami, Calligraphy, Ikebana and Bonsai held at various times from Wednesday to Friday.

Saturday 27 September is Family Fun Day. For the all-day admission charge of just $17 per family you can enjoy a range of activities designed to entertain every age group. Children will be well catered for with the extremely popular Obstacle Course and Kids Corner. For the ‘children at heart’ there are Sumo Wrestling Tournaments, Karate, Sword Demonstrations, Tea Ceremonies, Origami, Calligraphy, Ikebana, Kite Making / Flying and Bonsai demonstrations.

On Sunday 28 September the festival concludes with a Reconciliation Service and wreath-laying ceremony will be held at the Australian and Japanese War Cemeteries at 10.00am. (NO CULTURAL ACTIVITIES ON SUNDAY)

A selection of Japanese food (bento boxes and sushi rolls) is available at the Restaurant, open daily 8.30 am to 5.00pm.

Link to Sakura Matsuri Program

Link to Sakura Matsuri School Booking Form – 2007 (2007 program TBC- workshop numbers are limited and activities are subject to change)