Well folks, it’s here. Wilkes-Barre City’s 56th Annual Cherry Blossom Festival started this weekend at Kirby Park and of course we were there to capture it.

As soon as we arrived we couldn’t help noticing that there was a feeling of excitement in the air. And rightfully so, with the festival serving as the unofficial kickoff celebration for warm weather events in the region, there’s certainly a lot to be excited about!

As we walked around, it was great to see people outside again and sharing in each other’s excitement for the moments ahead. But for us, it was even more special to see the bright spring colors coming back to the surrounding trees.

The first annual Cherry Blossom festival was held on May 10th 1968 to not only commemorate the budding trees, but also to bring awareness to Wilkes-Barre’s stunning building designs. And though half of the focus has shifted from architecture to carnival rides, the celebration and admiration of the beautiful trees remains the same.

Wilkes-Barre’s Annual Cherry Blossom Festival runs April 27th and 29th from 11:00am-7:00pm For more information regarding activities, food vendors and the live entertainment schedule visit www.wilkes-barre.city/cherryblossomfestival

Check out the highlights below!