The Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival’s Spring Lights Illumination is a free evening event that features cherry blossoms, light displays and entertainment.
The event is usually part of the annual Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival (VCBF) which in 2024 runs from March 29th until April 25th. However, the Spring Lights Illumination Night hasn’t taken place since 2018. It may or may not return in the future.
Cherry Blossom Festival Spring Lights Illumination
Previously known as the Sakura Illumination Night, in 2019 the Spring Lights Illumination Night was going to take place by the Japanese War Memorial in Stanley Park on the Thursday, Friday and Saturday of April 11th to 13th. The plan was different from previous years, but the event was cancelled. In 2018 the event happened at Queen Elizabeth Park after sunset on Saturday, April 14th, so at a different venue and for just one evening.
Every year the event happens at around the same time, although it does vary based on the state of each year’s cherry blossom season.
When it happens, Spring Lights Illumination Night is a free family-friendly event that involves impressive light illuminations, cherry blossoms, music, a multi-sensory show and people with their picnics.
The event typically starts at dusk and continues until about 10 pm.
Tips and Advice
Below is a list of tips and suggestions to help you make the most out of your cherry blossom-viewing experience.
TIP #1: While at the Spring Lights Illumination event wander around the park. Stanley Park is beautiful this time of year.
TIP #2: If the weather is good, get there early to find convenient parking, admire the views and explore the park while it’s still light out.
TIP #3: Bring your picnic, something to sit on, your camera and warm clothing.
TIP #4: The Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival has a habit of changing its schedule at the last minute, especially in cases of potentially bad weather. Before heading out for the event, check the official website for exact details.
Other Information
See the vcbf.ca website or click Vancouver Cherry Blossom Festival for other cherry tree-related events taking place from late March to mid-April.
Other articles that might be of interest include the following:
- Vancouver’s April Calendar of Events
- Lower Mainland Parks and Nature
- Chilliwack Tulip Festival
- What’s Happening This Weekend