Spring is here, and that means one thing—cherry blossom season! If you’re in Jersey City, Hudson County, or NYC, you don’t have to travel far to see thousands of cherry trees in full bloom. The Newark Cherry Blossom Festival in Branch Brook Park is one of the biggest cherry blossom festivals in the U.S., with over 5,000 trees putting on a breathtaking pink and white display.
Whether you’re looking to snap the perfect Instagram photo, take part in exciting community events, or just enjoy a peaceful springtime stroll, this festival has something for everyone. Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 Newark Cherry Blossom Festival, including dates, events, rules, transportation tips, and more.
When is the Cherry Blossom Festival?
The Newark Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 runs from April 5 to April 13, with different events scheduled throughout the week. The cherry blossoms typically reach peak bloom in mid-April, so this is the best time to visit for the most stunning views.
Festival Events & Things to Do
This festival is more than just sightseeing—it’s packed with exciting events! Here’s a look at what’s happening:
Cherry Blossom Challenge Bike Race (Saturday, April 5)
Kick off the festival with a thrilling bike race through Branch Brook Park! Competitive cyclists will race through the park’s scenic pathways, but even if you’re not participating, it’s a fun event to watch and cheer on the riders.
Cherry Blossom 10K Run (Sunday, April 6)
Love running? The Cherry Blossom 10K lets you race through the park’s stunning cherry tree-lined paths. If you’re just here for the views, grab a coffee and enjoy watching the runners make their way through the course.
Bloomfest (Sunday, April 13)
This is the biggest event of the festival, featuring:
Live music and cultural performances
Food vendors & local artisans
Family-friendly activities
Japanese cultural demonstrationsTip: Arrive early for Bloomfest—it gets crowded fast, and parking fills up quickly!
Guided Historic Tours
Explore Branch Brook Park’s history and cherry blossom trees with an expert-led guided tour. These walks are perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about the park’s Japanese cherry trees and how they became a local tradition.
Best Photo Spots
If you’re here for the photo ops, the best spots include:
Cherry Blossom Welcome Center – Great for wide shots of multiple trees
Concourse Hill – Offers a mix of trees and skyline views
Prudential Concert Grove – A picturesque space with blossoms surrounding the area
Rules & Regulations
To keep the festival fun and safe for everyone, here are some important rules to follow:
No picking cherry blossoms – Let everyone enjoy them!
Keep the park clean – Use trash cans and recycling bins.
Leash your pets – Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash.
Follow parking guidelines – Illegally parked cars will be ticketed.
Drones require permits – No unauthorized drone flying over the park.
How to Get to Branch Brook Park from Jersey City, Hudson County & NYC
Public Transit (Best Option!)
- From Jersey City, Hoboken, or Bayonne
- Take the PATH Train or NJ TRANSIT Train to Newark Penn Station.
- Transfer to the Newark Light Rail at Newark Penn.
- Get off at Branch Brook Park Station—the park is a short walk away!
- From NYC
- Take the NJ TRANSIT Train from Penn Station (NYC) to Newark Penn Station.
- Follow the same Newark Light Rail transfer as above.
Tip: The Newark Light Rail fare is only $1.60 per ride, making it a super affordable way to get to the festival!
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit the Newark Cherry Blossom Festival
The Newark Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the best springtime experiences in New Jersey. Whether you’re here to see the cherry blossoms in peak bloom, enjoy live performances at Bloomfest, or participate in a race, this festival offers something for everyone.
Mark your calendars, grab your camera, and don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of spring!
