Photos by MIKEY HIRANO CULROSS / Rafu Shimpo

The East San Gabriel Valley Japanese Community Center partnered once again with the City of West Covina to host the 2025 Cherry Blossom Festival on April 26 at Plaza West Covina. Scores of visitors dodged a few raindrops and were treated to food booths, games, craft vendors and a slate of musical and stage performances. The annual festival marks the beginning of spring; the newly emerging blossoms represent hope, beauty, and new life.

Clockwise from above: a young black belt from the Eibo Kan Gojo Ryu Karate Do demonstrates his skills; festivalgoers were treated to gentle movements and soothing island sounds from Nā Pua Ohana ‘Ilima Hula Studio; ESGVJCC staff member Michi Lew looks on as a young visitor spins for a prize; someone is both excited and mesmerized at the sight of a giant Pikachu.