The Sapporo Lilac Festival began in 1959 at the urging of persons of culture. The lilac was chosen as the tree of Sapporo, and the purpose of the festival was to hold an event with the scent of culture during the season when lilacs are in full bloom. Since then, the festival has become firmly established among citizens as a festival that heralds the early summer of Sapporo.
Mainly at the Odori Park site, where about 400 lilacs are in full bloom, concerts held on the Lilac Spring Stage, lilac tree planting, outdoor tea ceremony, stamp rallies, and other events are held. In addition, a new Kawashimo Park site has been established for the 50th event, where visitors can enjoy 1,700 lilacs of about 200 varieties from around the world, as well as guided tours through the lilac forests.
During the festival, a café terrace will be set up at the Odori Park site, and a corner where visitors can experience old games and hands-on workshops will be held. The attractions of this event are that visitors can enjoy not only looking at the exhibits, but also exercising their minds and bodies. In addition, a limited number of lilac saplings will be distributed free of charge at both the Odori and Kawashimo Park sites.
Highlights
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The first Lilac Festival was held in 1959 and has become a festival that heralds the beginning of summer in Sapporo.
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The festival is held mainly at the Odori Park site, where approximately 400 lilacs are in full bloom, and concerts and other events are held.
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During the festival, various corners are set up near the festival site, and there are also many hands-on corners.
