Spring Has Sprung!
There’s nothing quite like living in a culturally diverse urban hot spot that offers one of the region’s most botanically diverse experiences. Springtime near your Brooklyn apartment is truly magnificent. Spend the day or just a couple of hours at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden to lift your spirits and kickstart the season.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a regional treasure, inspiring people of all ages through its celebration of conservation and display, as well as its ongoing educational programs that emphasize a hands-on approach to learning. Think of it as a living museum. Become a member and you’ll have free access whenever a visit strikes your fancy. Adults outside of membership are $15, those 65 and older and students 12 and older enjoy a discounted rate of $8. Children under 12 get in for free, and so does the general public if they visit before noon on Fridays. Programs and classes are available to all ages, including school and teacher opportunities. Each season comes with its own unique plant life, so there’s never a dull moment.
Aside from daily research and opportunities to admire some of the most beautiful plants nature has to offer, the Botanic Garden is also known for hosting what’s arguably the most well-known and highly anticipated outdoor springtime event on this part of town. Taking place this year from April 27 through April 28 is Sakura Matsuri, aka New York’s Cherry Blossom Festival. This breath-taking outdoor festival showcases Japanese culture. Residents and tourists alike can participate in a variety of springtime activities, including gathering in the tea room, visiting the art gallery, and browsing the flea market, all while surrounded by lush, pink-petal trees. The festival itself serves as a seasonal unveiling of the distinct plant that peaks for just two days. Additional entertainment often includes Taiko drummers, cosplay actors, J-rock bands, comedy shows, dance parties, and demonstrations by samurai sword masters.
A little later in the season, visitors have the opportunity to attend a plant sale, which is a tradition 66 years in the making. Members can preview the lovely blooms on Wednesday, May 8, then the event opens to the general public the following day. This brilliant springtime event takes place on Cherry Esplanade, and showcases the metropolitan area’s largest collection of plants. Free talks and workshops are also offered. With each paid admission, you get a coupon for a free return visit, but you won’t need that kind of incentive once you’ve experienced the garden for yourself. You’ll definitely want to return. The best part is, you never have to go far to find springtime near your Brooklyn Apartment.