Auburn Set to Bloom Pink as 2026 Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival Tickets Go On Sale
Media Release/ Publicity posted 17 July,2026
Festival highlights include cultural performances, food stalls, and a celebration of the heritage-listed Auburn Botanic Gardens.
AUBURN, NSW – Tickets are now on sale for the iconic Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival, which takes over the Auburn Botanic Gardens next month.
The annual festival is a must-see celebration of Japanese culture, mouthwatering food, live entertainment, and peaceful nature escapes. The event is set among a stunning canopy of 200 pink cherry blossom trees, which will be in full bloom.
Thousands of visitors are expected to flock to the botanic gardens during the nine-day festival, running from Saturday 22 August to Sunday 30 August. Hosted by Cumberland City Council, this hugely popular event draws crowds from across Sydney, NSW, and interstate, offering people of all ages a vibrant cultural experience.
A Rich Cultural Program in a Heritage Setting
Highlights this year include a Zen Zone for peaceful reflection, guided forest walks, origami workshops, presentations by TV garden guru Costa Georgiadis, comedian Takashi Wakasugi, Japanese cooking demonstrations, a ninja stunt show, and much more.
Cumberland City Council Mayor Ola Hamed said the festival is a highlight of the year and is a unique experience that can’t be found anywhere else in Sydney.
“Each year, the Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival transforms the Auburn Botanic Gardens into one of the most breathtaking destinations in Sydney,” Mayor Hamed said.
“It offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with nature, soak up some Japanese culture, and create lasting memories with loved ones. The festival showcases the rich traditions and contemporary culture of Japan, while also bringing people from all backgrounds together to celebrate diversity, friendship, and shared experiences in our community.”
Key Features of the 2026 Festival
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Cherry Blossom Trails: A dreamy stroll under the pink canopies, including a torii gate and cherry arbour. Visitors can choose between the full trail (30 minutes) or the express trail (10 minutes).
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Sakura Stage: Live presentations and demonstrations featuring comedian Takashi Wakasugi, TV star Costa Georgiadis, cooking with Yoshiko, traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, music, and more.
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Japanese Food Village: A culinary feast featuring ramen, mochi, dumplings, matcha, Japanese fluffy soufflé pancakes, and Chatime.
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Takumi Pavilion: A cultural hub to discover the ancient art of origami paper folding and Japanese fan making.
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Zen Zone: A peaceful escape designed specifically for rest, reflection, and rejuvenation.
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Shinrin-Yoku Forest Bathing: Guided walks led by certified natural therapy guides to help visitors engage their senses, reconnect with nature, and unwind.
A Garden of National and Historical Significance
Beyond the annual blossoms, visitors to the festival will be stepping into a deeply historic site. The Auburn Botanic Gardens (located at 99 Chiswick Road, Auburn) holds a prestigious spot on the National Trust Register, having been officially listed in September 2015.
Operated by Cumberland City Council, the gardens hold a multi-faceted significance recognized by the National Trust:
Event Details & Ticketing
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Dates: Saturday 22 August to Sunday 30 August 2026
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Location: Auburn Botanic Gardens, 99 Chiswick Road, Auburn
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Tickets: On sale now through Oztix.
For more information and to book tickets, visit the official website at Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival | Cumberland City Council.
