Cherry Blossoms and Cherry Blossom Festivals on Long Island

Cherry blossoms usher in the spring season at Old Westbury Gardens. Photo courtesy of the garden
Cherry blossoms usher in the spring season at Old Westbury Gardens. Photo courtesy of the garden
4/5/24 - By Lisa Mancuso

Spring has arrived on Long Island, bringing with it a glorious burst of colorful cherry blossoms. These are perfect days to explore some of the area's family-friendly gardens and Long Island's excellent state parks, where displays of delicate pink cherry blossoms and a host of other springtime trees and flowers are in full bloom.

A visit to any one of the beautiful gardens or parks listed below lets your kids experience the vibrancy of the season and see the beautiful cherry blossoms.

Searching for more seasonal splendor? Check out our Spring Fun Guide for Long Island Kids. Or pile the kids in the car and set off on a family day trip to one of the many cherry blossom-filled parks in New York City.

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Cherry blossom festivlas on Long Island: Cherry blossom-lined streets are a sprintime treat in Greenport
Walk the village of Greenport to view the lovely blooms. Photo courtesy of the Greenporter Hotel

Cherry Blossom Festivals on Long Island in 2024

Greenport Cherry Blossom Festival – Greenport

Opens Saturday, April 20, 2024
Visit this charming village on Long Island’s North Fork for a peek at the dozens of gorgeous cherry blossoms that line the streets. Pick up a map at the AgroCouncil Information Center located in the Greenporter Hotel Lobby or from any local shop or restaurant, and your family can take the FREE self-guided tour to find and identify the different species of trees located throughout the village.

RELATED: Best of April: Awesome Things To Do on Long Island with Kids

Cherry blossom festivals on Long Island: Visit the Sakura Matsuri Festival at Stony Brook
The Sakura Matsuri: Cherry Blossom Festival takes place at Stony Brook University’s Charles B. Wang Center. Photo courtesy of the festival

Sakura Matsuri: Cherry Blossom Festival – Stony Brook

Sunday, April 21, 2024
Celebrating all things Japanese, this daylong festival takes place rain or shine at Stony Brook University’s Charles B. Wang Center. Cultural exhibits, children’s activities, and live events are planned, including Japanese dance and music performances, origami workshops, manga drawing, and more. Admission includes all workshops and theater performances. Register online in advance.

Arbor Day Family Festival at Planting Fields Arboretum – Oyster Bay

Saturday, April 27-Sunday, April 28, 2024
An original Gold Coast estate, Planting Fields sits on more than 400 acres, boasting formal gardens, hiking trails, and beautiful plantings. This year’s annual Arbor Day Family Festival features activities, including environmental and educational booths and live entertainment.

RELATED: Nature Centers Sure to Delight Long Island Kids

More Places to See Cherry Blossoms and Blooms on Long Island

Bailey Arboretum – Lattingtown

Located on the north shore of Nassau County, this 42-acre arboretum is open on weekends. Ponds, fields, and a nature walk inspire children to explore the great outdoors.

Hofstra University Arboretum – Hempstead

The nearly 245-acre campus was officially recognized as an arboretum in 1985. Families are welcome to walk the campus to view what’s in bloom this spring.

Old Westbury Gardens – Old Westbury

An abundance of blooming spring plants and trees, including cherry blossoms, attracts adults and children to this 200-acre former estate in Nassau County. Little ones can unplug and reconnect with nature during special spring break sessions. Advanced tickets are required and can be booked via its website.

Argyle Park – Babylon

This town park's lovely lake is framed by a collection of cherry blossoms that bloom each spring, sprinkling their pale pink petals all along the pathways. A spring walk here is a must-do.

Caumsett State Historic Park Preserve – Huntington

This sprawling estate-turned-park overlooks the Long Island Sound and is a perfect spot for a springtime walk when the cherry blossoms burst to life in its formal garden. While you're there, be sure to explore the rest of the hiking and biking trails and the natural beauty of this north shore stunner.

For more spring adventures, check out our Family Activity Calendar and our Spring Fun Guide.

Originally published in 2017; this post is updated annually.

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