Birmingham's First Japanese Cherry Blossom Makers Market Arrives This Weekend
Birmingham is set to welcome its inaugural Japanese Cherry Blossom Makers Market, a free event taking place in Brindleyplace this Sunday, March 29. Hosted in Oozells Square adjacent to the Ikon Gallery, the celebration runs from midday until 4 pm, offering a vibrant day out for all ages.
Inspired by Japanese Hanami Traditions
The event draws inspiration from Japan's centuries-old hanami tradition, where communities gather to admire cherry blossoms through festivals and flower-watching parties. This follows the success of a recent cherry blossom concert by the Birmingham Contemporary Music Group, which sparked such enthusiasm that organizers have planned this expanded follow-up.
Brindleyplace has even dedicated an Instagram feed, BrindleyBlooms, to showcase the stunning blooms that have captivated locals. The market is a collaboration with Blue Moon Markets, promising a blend of cultural immersion and creative fun.
What to Expect at the Market
Visitors can look forward to a diverse array of activities and stalls. Highlights include live music performances by the Cat Davis Trio, a blossom trail, and craft workshops such as blossom windsock making with the National Trust. Street food vendors will be on hand to provide culinary delights.
An indoor Japanese market at X, 10 Brindleyplace, operated by Grumpy Daruma and JapanCrafts, will feature authentic items like kimonos, illustrations, fabrics, crafting supplies, and a selection of sake. Art activities will also be available at the Ikon Gallery, ensuring a well-rounded cultural experience.
Meet the Local Artisans
The Makers Market will showcase over a dozen Birmingham-based creators, each bringing unique handmade goods. Here’s a glimpse of some standout stallholders:
- All My Blunders – Illustrator Luna offers colorful art prints, stickers, and cards with a whimsical, nature-inspired touch.
- Beth AJI Design – Beth presents hand-printed botanical garlands and fun plant-themed stickers.
- Gaea Nayo Ceramics – This potter crafts multicolored gloss-glazed ceramics, including bud-vases and planters.
- Hannah Bruton & Tailored Terrariums – A creative duo featuring mixed-media illustrations and DIY terrarium kits.
- Moiemakes – Jo creates needle-felted artwork using merino wool, inspired by natural landscapes.
- My Minimal Co – Maria’s eco-friendly candles support tree planting with each sale through One Tree Planted.
- Odd Dot Designs – Sofia’s vibrant jewellery reflects her Chilean heritage with sun-inspired designs.
- Paper Ink Alchemy – Lottie specializes in botanical art on baubles, prints, and embroidered shoes.
- The Bug Club – Ellie’s mixed-media prints encourage outdoor exploration and bold living.
Other notable participants include Lottie Mattison with surreal narrative prints, Panny Paint Pot with handmade lino-prints, Pipes & Petals with pipe-cleaner flower bouquets, Sam Liteav Paintings with affordable nature prints, The Catkin Boutique with woodland creature gifts, The Moushmi Edit with textured floral artwork, and Vanessa Mountain Art blending cultural heritage with storytelling.
A Fun-Filled Afternoon for All
A spokesperson for the event expressed excitement, stating, “It’s going to be a fun-filled afternoon in Oozells Square – we hope you’ll join us!” The market aims to blend Japanese cultural elements with local creativity, providing a unique springtime attraction in the heart of Birmingham.
For more details, visitors can check the Brindleyplace website. This event underscores the city’s growing appetite for immersive cultural experiences, following the popularity of previous cherry blossom festivities.
