After a two-year hiatus, the Jackson Park cherry blossoms are adorning the historic area on the South Side once again. Located near the Japanese Garden, the cherry trees represent renewal of life, impermanence and are a springtime celebration that just about anyone in town enjoys. Plus, they are beautiful to look at.
Given the erratic weather patterns of the past few years and this month’s cooler temperatures, we weren’t sure if those iconic pink and white blooms would return—but here they are! Interestingly, while peak bloom typically occurs in early to late May, the consistent mid to high 60s over the past few weeks triggered an earlier blooming period this year. So you should rush over and catch the sight in person ASAP.
The first ornamental cherry trees were planted in 2013 to commemorate the 120th anniversary of the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition, which occurred in the park. In 2016, 50 additional trees were planted to honor the relationship between Chicago and Japan. Over the next few years, more trees were planted on the border of the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. Last year, 60 additional ones took over the 16-acre Wooded Island in the Garden of the Phoenix, marking the 60th anniversary of the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Chicago.
That brings the total number of cherry trees in the area to 190—with the Parks District hoping to increase that figure to 250 by 2026.
The total cherry trees in the area is 190. The Parks District hopes to continue planting more trees, as they've done for the last 12 years, bringing the number to 250 by 2026.
In case you need more convincing, here are some stunning shots of the natural wonder in Jackson Park: