Sakura, better known as Japanese Cherry Blossoms, have an important role in Japan. Cherry Blossoms are a symbolic flower of the spring, a time of renewal, and a reminder of the fleeting nature of life. Their lifespan is very short. After their beauty peaks for about two weeks, the blossoms then start to fall.

During this season in Japan, people like to have cherry blossom viewing parties with colleagues, friends, and family. Cherry Blossoms make people merry. They enjoy eating, drinking, and gathering underneath the blossoms. They refer to this custom as hanami. Hanami is translated as "flower viewing" – hana (flower) and mi (to see or view). The tradition can be traced back a thousand years.

Cherry Blossoms are also an important part of the spring in Champaign-Urbana. Each year, the gardens at Japan House in the Arboretum at the University of Illinois come alive with 50 sakura trees bursting into life. They seem to be waiting for the perfect day to bloom!

Usually, Japan House encourages people to come to the Arboretum, to bring their family and friends to enjoy the fleeting beauty first-hand. Unfortunately, this year is an exception. Due to the health and safety restrictions in place locally, as well as state-wide and nationally, Japan House and the Arboretum feel it is best to keep a safe distance and practice physical distancing by not coming to the Arboretum this year.

Japan House is pleased to be working with Chambanamoms to bring this exciting event to the Champaign-Urbana community. Japan House will be showcasing the beauty of the season with pictures, videos, and crafting projects that everyone can enjoy from the safety of their home.

Please keep your eyes out on Japan House and Chambanamoms' social media for the first glimpse of new buds in the next few days! Japan House will be monitoring the trees very closely and sharing images of their progress daily.

Families are encouraged to participate in origami and other crafting projects that will be provided each day. Then please decorate your front door, porch or windows with the projects for others in your neighborhood to enjoy. Get inspired and show your creativity!

Please post pictures and stories on social media with the hashtag #chambanablooms

With your help, the residents of Champaign-Urbana won't miss out on this special time of the year. With your help, we can make Chambana Bloom SAFE for everyone!