CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL, MACON, GA

March 20 – We decided to stay an extra night at the Perry fair grounds where the FMCA Rally was held so we could drive up to Macon (35 miles) for the Cherry Blossom Festival. Did you know that Macon has more than 300,000 Yoshino Japanese Cherry Trees? So many that Macon was declared the Cherry Blossom Capital of the United States” in 1983. Later, the Japanese Consul General named Macon the “Cherry Blossom Capital of the World!!” William Finkling found and propagated the first Yoshinos in 1949 and later he gave away 1,500 trees every year to the Macon community. That’s how there came to be many Cherry trees.

Here are two of the newest Cherry Blossoms!!




We went to the Opening Ceremony and Ribbon Cutting (because we could sit down). All the dignitaries were there, even the Japanese Ambassador to the US, and the honorary Pink Poodle.

After the ceremony, we went on a Cherry Blossom Riding Tour that showcased Macon’s Cherry Trees throughout the city and various neighborhoods. It was a great way to see the city. The trees were a little disappointing because they were only about one-third bloomed, and most of them were white rather than pink (as in Washington).

Fickling's mailbox.

On the tour we also stopped and toured Woodruff House and St. Joseph Catholic Church. One of the interesting things about the Woodruff House is the beautiful crystal in the center of the banister. The crystal signifies that the house has been paid for.

Historic landmark, St. Joseph Catholic Church.

After the riding tour, we stayed for awhile to enjoy the country music concert by The Foxx City Band before driving back to Perry.