BLOSSOMING TREES,
DECORATED EGGS,
AND CHOCOLATE
BUNNIES
Article by Lisa E Kirkwood
In all cultures of the world, the beginning of the new year
and the arrival of spring, occurring at different dates
across the globe, mark a significant time of renewal,
optimism, and hope for better opportunities. People
welcome the new season with various events, local,
regional, national, or international, that reinforce
connectivity and social bonds, while contributing to
commercial exchanges, unitary economies, and to the
betterment of communities altogether.
Cherry Blossoms – Delicate Symbols of Spring
Asia observes spring festivals in many countries, and in
Japan, flower festivals are widely celebrated at this time
of year. Tree flowers symbolize not only the fleeting
beauty of nature, but the fragility of human life itself, and
the importance of enjoying every single small moment
that can bring happiness. Sakura, Japan’s iconic cherry
blossom, is indeed the main attraction at these events,
but flower festivals also feature an array of traditional
entertainment, cultural highlights, and tourist attractions.
Cherry trees bloom at different times, depending on their
type and location. Flower viewing parties, known as
hanami, take place throughout the entire country, from
February to late May, according to geography and climate.
Historically, it is estimated that hanami dates back more
than 1,000 years. At the time of origin, hanami festivals
were reserved for the Japanese aristocrats and centered
around plum blossoms, rather than cherry blossoms.
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