As we shiver through the last month of winter, it’s hard to believe that spring is just around the corner. Slowly, slowly, the days are getting a longer and warmer and soon, the flowers will be in bloom. Take in the beauty of the season by going to the whimsical cherry blossom festival. Explore the stunning rows of blossoming cherry trees with your loved ones, and bring your dog along too! While you’re there, cool down with cherry ice cream, listen to live music and take part in activities and workshops. This Blossom Festival at CherryHill Orchards will run from Saturday September 16 to Sunday October 1.
CherryHill Orchards Blossom Festival
The Blossom Festival is a great day out for families, friends, couples and dogs. This festival feels even more special, because the trees are only in full bloom for two weeks a year. After you admire the sweet blossoms, check out the food trucks on-site and sip on new cherry-based drinks. Try Cherry Blossom Gin, Cherry Vodka, Cherry Blossom Frappes and Cherry Blossom Tea. Of course, you’re welcome to bring your own picnic, and relax on the lawn while taking in sweeping views of the Yarra Valley.
High Tea in the Blossoms
If you’d like to take things up a notch, book yourself in for a high tea experience with the help of Mary Eats Cake. Nestled away in your own private row of cherry blossoms, you’ll enjoy a picturesque picnic with cakes, sandwiches, fruit, cheese and other sweet and savoury treats. Alongside your meal, you’ll enjoy a taste of Blossom Gin, which was handcrafted in Melbourne with CherryHill cherries and quality botanicals. High Tea in the Blossoms is available for one day only, on September 23.
This special event costs $189 per person, with session times from 11am to 1pm or 2:30pm to 4:30pm.
Workshops at the festival
Tap into your creative side with a new Sip n’ Paint workshop. Hosted by Frida’s Sip n’ Paint, you’ll use the beautiful natural surrounds of the cherry blossoms to inspired you over a 2.5 hour session.
Take part in the Smart Phone Photography Workshop, and learn the basic principles of image composition and lighting over a one hour workshop. Then, walk around the orchard and practice your new skills, while taking the best photos possible.
Tap into your inner fairy princess with a flower crown workshop, learn all about bees or create two of your own soy candles to take home.
Other experiences at the cherry blossom festival
Add a photography package to your ticket, and get professional shots of you frolicking around the cherry blossoms.
Take things to the next level and pair the festival with a hot air balloon ride. Watch the sunrise over the Yarra Valley with the help of Global Ballooning, then spend a morning among the blossoms.
Meanwhile, if you’d prefer to stay on the ground, indulge in a Mid-Week Wine and Dine adventure with the help of Rochford Wines. Head to the winery for wine tasting and a two-course seasonal lunch, then make your way to the cherry blossom festival.
Tickets to the cherry blossom festival cost $12.50 for adults mid-week, or $15 over the weekend. Children under 14 are $7 mid-week, and $8 on weekends. Meanwhile, kids under 3, and dogs, can come along for free! Head to the website to make your booking, and find out additional info and ticket prices for workshops and special events.