Spring has sprung, and so have the Essex County Cherry Blossoms. The 2021 Essex County Cherry Blossom Festival, traditionally held in Essex County Branch Brook Park in Newark will be held virtually this year. While the pandemic has negatively affected many events, Essex County is keeping the tradition of appreciating and admiring the local Cherry Blossoms very much alive. Read on to learn about Essex County’s plans for this year’s virtual festival.
“The Coronavirus pandemic has impacted all of our lives, but it has not stopped our magnificent Cherry Blossoms from blooming! While we continue to endure through this public health crisis, we encourage you to witness this natural wonder of the world come to life this spring through our series of virtual events,” County Executive Joseph N. DiVincenzo told The Village Green. “Residents coming to the park to see the Cherry Blossoms should wear face masks and practice social distancing. We are at a crucial time fighting this virus and we can not let our guard down,” DiVincenzo said.
The virtual events will include everything from a virtual 10K, to spring activities for kids {and adults}, and even live footage of the Cherry Blossoms blooming in real-time.
Read More: Essex County Cherry Blossom Virtual Festival
If you’re looking to check out the Cherry Blossoms, but can’t get to the park this year – you can now view the status of bloom season on new cameras that have been set up in the park. The live footage can be accessed here.
This year’s virtual festival includes the virtual Cherry Blossom 10K with a virtual twist! The 10K can be completed by runners anytime between April 3 and April 18. Runners will have the option to follow the event’s 10K route through Essex County Branch Brook Park – or a route of your own choosing.
All racers who complete the 10K will receive a medal and a long-sleeved race t-shirt. While registration closed on April 2, you can still challenge yourself to a 10K in the park or any of the great running paths in the Essex County area.
See More: April 2021 Volunteer Opportunities in Essex County
Musical performers and cultural presentations will be presented on Essex County Parks’ social media platforms. Make sure to follow Essex County Parks’ Facebook page and @essexparks on Instagram. These videos will present a variety of content including historic facts and information from Branch Brook Park – as well as kid-friendly crafts, cultural demonstrations from past presenters, and more.
If you do end up at Branch Brook Park, visitors are invited to explore any of the 72+ Historic Walking Tour stops by cell phone. This feature can be accessed by cell phone or smartphone. Dial 973-433-9047 or a scan of the barcode at each tour stop to unlock all the park history and horticultural information. This service is free.
