FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MACON, GA — The International Cherry Blossom Festival will return to Macon, Georgia, from March 20–29, 2026, inviting visitors to experience ten days of events, entertainment, and community celebration in the Cherry Blossom Capital of the World. Featuring a wide range of activities for all ages, the festival highlights the blooming of hundreds of thousands of Yoshino cherry trees alongside a full schedule of signature events, live entertainment, and family-friendly attractions.
The Festival at Carolyn Crayton Park will once again serve as a central hub of activity throughout the ten-day celebration. Guests can enjoy amusement rides, nightly concerts, specialty shows, food vendors, and shopping opportunities. Park admission is $10 per day, with free entry for children 10 and under. Unlimited ride wristbands are available for $25 on weekdays, $30 on weekends, and $20 on the final day of the festival.
The festival will kick off with the Cherry Blossom Ball on Friday, March 20, from 7 to 11 p.m. at the Macon City Auditorium. This year’s theme, “Cirque de Sakura,” will feature elaborate décor, a catered dining experience, and live entertainment all with a nod to the Festival at Carolyn Crayton Park.
On Saturday, March 21, the highly anticipated Wiener Dog Race, Musical Chairs, and the Bed Race on Cherry Street return. The Ultimate Air Dogs competition will take place March 21–22 on Second Street, offering high-energy dock jumping performances.
One of the festival’s most anticipated traditions, the Cherry Blossom Parade, will take place on Sunday, March 22, beginning at 3 p.m. in downtown Macon. The parade will showcase marching bands, community organizations, and colorful floats, celebrating the spirit and culture of Central Georgia.
During the week, visitors can enjoy Third Street Park Festivities from March 23–27 during lunchtime hours, featuring live music, complimentary Coca-Cola products, and themed treats in the birthplace of the festival.
The popular Food Truck Frenzy and Cherry Market will return March 28–29, featuring a diverse selection of regional food vendors, retail vendors, and live entertainment. This year’s event will also include an expanded Kids Zone featuring Peachy Playtown and Gelly Ball, along with live music from Parish on Cherry throughout the weekend.
The festival will conclude with “Last Blast at Carolyn Crayton Park” on Sunday, March 29, featuring discounted rides, entertainment, and tethered hot air balloon rides, weather permitting.
Additional featured events include the Pink Pancake Breakfast on March 21 and 28 at Luther Williams Field, the CBF Isekai Esports and Anime Convention on March 28–29, and the Mulberry Street Arts & Crafts Festival on March 28–29.
Daily attractions at Carolyn Crayton Park include the Bengal Tiger Encounter, Royal Legacy Circus, Sara Twister, Show-Me-Swine Racers, and Mighty Mike, along with nightly concerts featuring local acts on the Coca-Cola Entertainment Stage including:
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March 20 – AJ the DJ; March 21 – Stacii Adams; March 22 – Macon Music Revue; March 23 – Stacey Blanton; March 24 – Georgia Big Band; March 25 – Thomas Guest; March 26 – Tier Blue; March 27 – The Open Seas; March 28 – Great White Lion Snake; March 29 – AJ the DJ (yes, he’s performing twice).
The festival will also host several specialty days recognizing members of the community, including Heroes Day (March 23), Seniors Day (March 24), State Employee Day (March 25), and College Day (March 26), each offering free admission for qualifying guests with valid identification.
Festival organizers remind attendees that a clear bag policy will be enforced at Carolyn Crayton Park, pets are not permitted within the park, and all children 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Pets are allowed at the downtown events (wiener dog race, parade, etc).
For a full schedule of events, maps, and additional festival information, visit our schedule of events.
For media inquires, please contact Hannah Theus at htheus@cherryblossom.com
