It’s cherry blossom time in Waimea, where dozens of beautiful cherry trees come into full bloom at Church Row Park along Mamalahoa Highway. Held each year on the first Saturday of February, the Waimea Cherry Blossom Heritage Festival celebrates the iconic trees of this upcountry Big Island town. Taking place at various venues throughout town, the festival features lots of activities including mochi pounding, traditional tea ceremonies, home tours, bonsai demonstrations, multi-cultural performances, origami and more.
Planted in 1972 by the Waimea Lions Club, the cherry trees offer plenty of photo opportunities for residents and visitors, who can picnic or relax beneath the canopy of pink flowers. Artists set up their easels to paint the scenic vista. This year’s all-day event takes place on Saturday, February 2 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Look for the pink banners that identify site locations. Shuttle buses and vans transport visitors through town for free. The festival marks the 20th year with a special anniversary exhibit and live entertainment.
Located less than an hour’s drive from Holualoa Inn, the ranching community of Waimea is home to the famous Parker Ranch. Rolling green hills, clear blue skies, magnificent cloud formations and views of Mauna Kea in the distance combine to make Waimea one of Hawai‘i’s most unique destinations. If you are visiting the Big Island during Cherry Blossom time, be sure to make the trip and experience this very special event.
Innkeeper Holualoa Inn