Back by popular demand - the City’s cherry blossom webcam is streaming live starting today, as the 65 trees in Kariya Park get ready to burst into full bloom over the coming weeks. The cherry blossom livestream will be available from today until their petals start to fall, as the trees only stay in bloom for approximately two weeks.

Mississauga first offered this virtual viewing option for residents last year in response to the temporary closure of Kariya Park due to COVID-19. Last year, there were over 28,000 visits to the webpage that featured the cherry blossom livestream from April to June.

“We are very pleased to be offering this innovative virtual service again, so that residents can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms, no matter where they are,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “This year marks 40 years since Kariya, Japan, became our twin city. It reminds us of our enduring friendship and the importance of sharing this unique experience with our residents.”

As one of Mississauga’s most picturesque landmarks, Kariya Park typically attracts many visitors at this time of year to see the cherry blossoms in bloom.

“Though Kariya Park is currently open, we encourage all residents to take advantage of the virtual option to safely enjoy the cherry blossoms this year, to help stop the spread of COVID-19,” said Jodi Robillos, Director, Parks, Forestry and Environment. “If you do choose to visit in person, please keep in mind that, as with all of our parks, current COVID-19 restrictions and public health measures must be followed including maintaining physical distance of two metres (six feet) from others. To keep themselves and others safe, park users should also wear a face covering, even when outdoors, if physical distancing cannot be maintained.”

Based on the current public health measures, Kariya Park is open and accessible.  If conditions change and it's recommended that in-person visits are not safe, only a virtual option will be offered. Stay up-to-date on all changes to City services by visiting mississauga.ca/covid.

To view the live cherry blossom webcam, visit mississauga.ca/blossoms.

Follow the City on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter for fun ways to celebrate the cherry blossom season in the upcoming weeks.