Japanisches Kirschblütenfest @ Alster/Hamburg

For those interested in large crowds and what in past has been an excellent firework display: It's the annual Japanese cherry blossom fireworks on the Außenalster in Hamburg on Friday the 18th May at 22:30 - I take no responsibility for time/date, see here: Japanisches Kirschblütenfest.

It's many years since I have been there and I dont know the location from which the fireworks are staged. Many years ago it used to be from a barge anchored near the Northern end of the Alster and a good viewing point was in the Eastern side - against the remains of the setting sun but better view. I think the location has been moved since. The press info states "Außenalster". Many take to boats to watch the show. Its great if the weather is good.

Do you know anymore information as to the tradition? I found mention of a Japanese festival in spring called 'Hanami' which is to celebrate spring flowers such as sakura (cherry blossom) and ume (plum). There is, however, no mention of fireworks being part of this tradition.

Edit: Nevermind, I found the answer in the link provided


So the Japanese started this 'tradition' in 1968 as a thank you to Hamburg for their hospitability, when they planted sakura trees, which the fireworks commemorate.

Just for the record,

cherry blossom in Japan was finished about a month ago. I live 3hrs away from Fukoka and there are little chrries (not ripe, of course) on our cherry tree :-0

Important: In Japan they are appreciating chery blossom with some help of sake :-)

And these sakura are planted in the Planten und Blomen in front/back of a tea house.

So, tonight's the night & the weather looks promising...