kikumatsuri

chrysanthemum festival

Saturday October 19 to Sunday October 27: From 10 am to 5 pm

Every year the Japanese Garden organizes the Kikumatsuri (Chrysanthemum Festival) as the final highlight of the season. This year, the Japanese Garden is also presenting a new edition where a wealth of chrysanthemums will transform the garden into a colorful carpet of flowers.

The chrysanthemum is a flower with a history spanning hundreds of years in Japan and is associated with long life and rejuvenation because of its original medicinal use. Soon after its introduction from China in the 6th century, the chrysanthemum became a favorite of the Japanese people including the imperial family. They even made it their imperial symbol which has remained so to this day.
In addition, this flower is a symbol of autumn and the (rice) harvest which takes place in october. The concept of a chrysanthemum festival is almost as old as its history in Japan; the first edition was already organized in 910.

This year, the Japanese Garden is collaborating with local flower artist Els Geerdens and a team of dedicated volunteers. They will transform the Japanese Garden into a colourful and creative spectacle for two weeks.

Tickets can be bought on site at the entrance. No online booking is possible.

Closed on Monday (21 October)

kikumatsuri