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| - I felt like this event that happens every year in Toronto, for only a few weeks, deserves its own page, separate from High Park in its regular state. Given the size and magnitude it was this year, it's something that you'll have to experience at least once, but my suggestion is to go on a weekday or super early in the morning. We went on Sunday afternoon, and this was probably the peak.
I've giving it three stars, because on another day - without the crowds (like my friend who went on a Friday night), I think it's a wonderful experience.
The cherry blossoms were given to High Park in the 1960s from Japan and since then has become a landmark event in the city. Sakura viewing is supposed to a tradition of serene enjoyment and tranquility. It's quite the opposite experience here. With everything I'm going to write about below, I didn't even enjoy this outing one bit and just wanted to go home.
Perhaps reviews here would give people some insight, and the park itself - as the crowd both pedestrian and vehicle was horrendous.
I've come every year, but don't remember it being so crowded and seeing such mass amount of people. There were always a lot of people - picnicking and taking photos on the grass, but it just seemed like people were multiplying as we went deeper in the park.
I wouldn't mind it too much if there were some sort of crowd control. I don't think cars should be allowed in that section of the park for that time. Cars are allowed to park along the park streets, but it caused crazy backups as people would just stop in the middle of the street and get out. Everything was at a standstill at the single lanes. Although everyone was civil, needs to have some sort of authority to give people direction.
Not to mention, I am saddened and disappointed in people who don't respect the nature. I saw people shaking branches, picking and breaking the trees. Although it's sad that there needs to be, there should be a penalty fee $100 for vandalism like this. It works in Asia, there's a reason for this.
We went on our bikes, and along the bike paths, we had to get off and walk at some points. People seem to think that bikes are not vehicles and fail to look and acknowledge, instead cross the street as I ring my bell or swerve to avoid them.
The garbage and recycling were over flowing by the afternoon, with everyone piling their stuff - but at least they weren't littering.
If the park were to charge a donation of $5 per person, this would definitely help with maintaining all these crowds.
The most tranquil place of the park was down by Grenadier pond which was the furthest away you can get from the cherry blossoms.
Would I come again? Maybe, but only for the sake of scenery for an engagement or family portrait shoot- and early in the morning. It's not worth the headache otherwise
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