Spring Is Here, Essex County (And So Are The Cherry Blossoms)

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — The first day of spring has arrived, and it’s a great time to check out one of Essex County’s most anticipated outdoor activities: the cherry blossom trees in Branch Brook Park.

Every year, more than 5,000 of the fragrant trees burst into bloom in the county-run park, which is located in Newark and Belleville. The display of nature – even larger than the national display in Washington D.C. – attracts people from all across the region. Read More: Cherry Blossoms Are Blooming In Essex County As Popular Festival Nears (See List Of Events)

With the spring bloom also comes an annual festival, which will kick off April 1 and culminate with the free “Bloomfest” on April 16. This year’s Bloomfest takes place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and includes Japanese cultural demonstrations, children's activities, live music, a crafter's marketplace and food (learn more here).

History, driving directions to the park, a complete list of activities and a webcam where the public can monitor the cherry trees can be accessed by visiting www.essexcountynj.org/branch-brook-park.

If you’re looking to catch the trees at “peak bloom” this year, it’s expected to happen between April 1 and April 5, according to the Essex County Park System.

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