The Nikkei National Museum and Cultural Centre is celebrating the Month of O-Hanami in appreciation of the cherry blossom season.
Hanami, meaning "flower viewing" in Japanese, is the tradition of viewing cherry blossoms and appreciating their transient beauty in the spring, according to the museum.
This weekend the festivities will be in full bloom, as the centre hosts two days of workshops and events.
A free kimono dressing demonstration on Saturday beginning at noon will have skilled assistants, under the guidance of Fumiko Horan (kimono technician for Shōgun), dress models in kimono.
You can also learn techniques for wrapping and folding with furoshiki, traditional Japanese wrapping cloths for a $10 drop-in session.
Tickets for a samurai sword training workshop are also available, while the Sogetsu Ikebana workshop for flower arranging is sold out.
Sunday will feature Sakura-themed Kumikō (incense ceremonies) and a slide lecture sharing the cultural significance of sakura (cherry blossoms).
For more information about the festival, check the Nikkei Centre's website and Eventbrite page.
Month of O-Hanami at the Nikkei Centre in Burnaby
When: Saturday, April 27 and Sunday, April 28
Where: Nikkei National Museum and Cultural Centre (6688 Southoaks Cres.)
Cost: Free admission, workshops vary - see full list on Eventbrite
