Margate’s Cherry Blossom Festival

The Margate Business Association, in conjunction with the Margate Community Church, Sustainable Downbeach, and Margate Recreation, will celebrate the arrival of spring with their 4th annual Cherry Blossom Festival presented by The Pet Salon.

On the grassy grounds of the Margate Community Church, the Margate Recreation Department will host kids’ activities ranging from egg and spoon races to potato sack and three-legged races. The church will also feature a petting zoo, kids’ games, and a children’s craft booth to keep the little ones active. Tai Chi instructor Gerri Medoff opens the festival with her low-impact demonstrations which are free for all participants eager to understand its meditative and health benefits.

The Grateful Dead tribute band Dead Reckoning returns to the Cherry Blossom stage from 12-4 pm to perform an inspired set of Dead favorites, with their recognizable harmonies and Bob Weir-esque fueled vocals and guitar effects.

Browse a curated selection of local crafters and makers, like coastal-inspired pieces from Bianca Del Mar and Seafindings, rustic finds at Primitive Boutique, handmade wooden treasures from Just Wood, artwork by Calls Him Art – Michelle Calls, and artisan goods from Tribe Goods and One of One Design Wear.

Shop whimsical children’s accessories from Kids Kases, stylish apparel from Crescent Moon Clothing, and personalized gifts from Creative Images by Tara.

Sustainable Downbeach has assembled a collection of organizations featuring the Surfrider Foundation and their rain barrel demonstration, NJDEP AmeriCorps Watershed, Earth First Native Plant Nursery will display seed planting techniques, the Margate Terrapin Turtle Rescue Project, the Jacques Cousteau Estuary Research Reserve, Marine Mammal Stranding Center, and Busy Bees will all discuss the importance of protecting our wildlife, vegetation, marine life, oceans, and beaches.

Food trucks, concessionaires, and Wawa will be on site with a wide variety of items to satisfy all types of appetites. Options include California Yogurt Food Truck, DonutsNV, Dewlicious Café / Muffin Top, TacoCat Food Truck, Betty’s Seafood Shack, Philly Pretzel Factory, Kanto Filipino BBQ and Squeezies Lemonade. For Goodness Cakes and Busy Bees offer sweet treats.

There will also be a selection of beers, ready-to-drink beverages, and adult beverages to sample and/or purchase.

The festival will be held on Ventnor Avenue between Sumner and Union avenues, directly in front of the Margate Community Church.

Bring chairs or blankets.

Admission is free.