As spring unfolds in Ontario, the anticipation of cherry blossom season is palpable, particularly in Toronto's High Park and Mississauga's Kariya Park. This year, the cherry blossoms in High Park are expected to reach peak bloom starting May 3, 2025, and lasting until around May 9, 2025. According to Sakura Steve (Steve Joniak), who visited the buds on May 1, 2025, many trees have already achieved 75% bloom, with some areas displaying blossoms that are nearly fully open.
Joniak noted that recent weather conditions, marked by cloudy and rainy days, have delayed the blooming process in certain sections of the park, particularly near the pond and zoo. However, he remains optimistic about the upcoming sunny days, which should help accelerate the blooming across High Park just in time for the first weekend of May.
If you plan to visit High Park this weekend, the best views can be found at the sports fields near the Bloor Street entrance and on Cherry Hill, where many trees are already showing blooms at least 75% open, with some reaching 90%. Visitors are advised to avoid areas like Grenadier Pond, the dock, High Park Zoo, and Adventure Playground, as these spots are still catching up in terms of bloom.
High Park itself is a sprawling 399 acres, home to a variety of rare plant species, including a stunning array of cherry blossoms that attract visitors from all over. The park serves as a popular destination for those looking to enjoy the beauty of nature, take photographs, and participate in the annual cherry blossom experience.
In addition to High Park, cherry blossoms can also be found at several other locations across Toronto. Trinity Bellwoods Park, for instance, offers beautiful backdrops for photos with the iconic CN Tower in the background. The park features cherry trees along its circular path, providing ample shade and seating for visitors.
Another hidden gem is the John P. Robarts Research Library, where a grove of 70 cherry blossom trees was planted in 2005. This quieter location allows for a more intimate viewing experience, perfect for snapping pictures without the crowds.
Centennial Park boasts over 200 cherry blossom trees, making it the second-largest collection in Toronto. With playgrounds, soccer fields, and a BMX bike park, this park offers a variety of activities for families while enjoying the blossoms.
Exhibition Place is also home to around nine marked sections of cherry trees, primarily located in the northeastern part of the area. Visitors can enjoy the blossoms while potentially catching a Toronto FC game nearby.
Meanwhile, in Mississauga, excitement is building as Kariya Park prepares for its cherry blossom display. City officials announced on May 2, 2025, that around 80 cherry blossom trees are about to bloom, transforming the park into a sea of pink. This Japanese-style greenspace, named after Mississauga's sister city in Japan, is a perfect spot for spring photos.
Officials highlighted the importance of enjoying the blooms while they last, as the cherry blossoms typically remain vibrant for only one to two weeks. Weather conditions, such as wind and rain, can also affect their longevity. The cherry tree population at Kariya Park has remained stable over the years, having survived severe weather events, including a significant ice storm in 2013, which caused minimal damage.
Cherry blossoms hold a celebrated place in Japanese culture and art, with many varieties originating from the Japanese cherry tree, known as Sakura. This cultural significance adds to the allure of cherry blossom season, drawing people from all over to experience their beauty.
Other notable locations in the Greater Toronto Area for cherry blossom viewing include Centennial Park in Etobicoke, Broadacres Park, Spencer Smith Park in Burlington, and the Royal Botanical Gardens. Each of these sites offers unique opportunities to enjoy the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms.
As the cherry blossoms bloom across Ontario, residents and visitors alike are reminded to appreciate these stunning displays of nature while being mindful of the trees. Whether in Toronto's High Park or Mississauga's Kariya Park, the cherry blossoms signal the arrival of spring and the joy that comes with it.
