Photo by Valeria Ruiz
Spring has finally arrived, and with it comes the annual cherry blossom festival that takes place in Salem’s downtown area. These beautiful pink and white flowers can be seen everywhere, from the streets to the parks, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
In 1903, the first Cherry Blossom Festival took place in Oregon. Four years after in 1907 the nurserymen of the Pacific Coast Association titled Salem “Cherry City.” It attempted to organize an annual Blossom Day in 1913, but that was not revived until 2015.
The history of cherry blossoms in Salem goes beyond just their aesthetic appeal. It is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and friendship. In the early 20th century, Japanese immigrants faced discrimination and prejudice in the United States, but the gift of cherry trees served as a symbol of goodwill and reconciliation between Japan and the United States.
Travel Salem is having their annual photo contest until April 30th where Oregonians compete to take and submit their best Cherry Blossom photos of 2023. Admission is free and participants are competing to win a Focal Point Photography gift card.
Now, the cherry blossoms are visible in a stroll through the Oregon Capitol State Park where a stone pathway guides you through the array of trees. Even though the official festival has passed, the trees are still aesthetically decorated with lanterns and other forms of lighting. Keep an eye out for the trees before the beautiful colors fade for summer.
