I may have worn a parka to work in the early part of this week, but I also saw a fountain of pink petals cascading off the cherry tree on my block, so no one can tell me it’s not actually spring. Brooklyn’s cherry blossoms don’t get as much hype as the display in D.C., but I can assure you they are just as pretty, so celebrate them and a special annual tradition by carving out some time this weekend for Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s tribute to traditional and contemporary Japanese culture, the Sakura Matsuri festival. With a full schedule of entertainment and events ranging from bonsai demonstrations, a performance by a Tokyo anime rock band, tea ceremonies, manga drawing and samurai sword fighting, the festival definitely offers something for everyone. I personally love the BBG Parasol Society Games, a parade of sorts featuring elaborately costumed Tokyo goth gals, Victorian maidens and boho Bo Peeps which will be emceed this year by self-described “geek comedian” Uncle Yo. Tickets for the festival are $20 per day and you’ll want to arrive early to beat the afternoon rush. –K.H.