By: Krow Smith | @coffeewithkrow

I believe cultural appreciation and exchange is very important, especially as someone who enjoys anime and manga. I want to experience more of Japanese culture rather than simply gaining it through osmosis via their media. Peggy has too and, recently, she has been getting involved with the Japan-America Association of South Carolina (JAASC).

So, when I heard about the JAASC hosting a cherry blossom festival that Peggy wanted to go to at Irmo Town Park, SC, I was excited to attend as well–and it did not disappoint!

Firstly, I was surprised by the amount of people who took part in the festival. Cars lined the streets and crammed together on the grassy areas that had become makeshift parking lots. There were also a good amount of vendors that showed up to sell their wares at the event. As we walked up, it was easy to see that the park where the event was being held was packed with people.

There were a couple of familiar faces among the vendors from conventions and I liked the placement of the booths as it created a natural flow around the park as they surrounded the gazebo at the center. There were a couple of vendors inside of the gazebo too, and just outside of it were the taiko performers. I thoroughly enjoyed the taiko performance: it added a lot to the atmosphere and created a fuller experience. It was also sweet to see the performers teach some kids how to play.

While looking around at the different booths, I complimented someone on their coord (lolita outfit) and they gave me a pretty flower! I feel this anecdotal event was indicative of the overall mood of the event, which was very pleasant and good-natured.

However, I would be neglectful if I didn’t mention the lack of wheelchair accessibility. I knew the distance would be walkable so I didn’t bring my wheelchair, but I did notice there were no ramps near the staircases and most of the booths were on the grass where there were a lot of divots. As for where Peggy and I parked (in one of the grassy areas), it would have been a nightmare for my wheelchair as well.

If you used a mobility aid, like forearm crutches or a cane, it would be far more manageable. Although, I think the same problems would apply for walkers as they do for wheelchairs, especially considering the uneven ground. These are just things to keep in mind if you plan to come to a park event like this in the future and something I’m always aware of.

Though more Americanized, I felt like this event is still a way to experience Japanese culture while living in the States. I feel, as someone who enjoys manga and anime, it is important to appreciate Japanese culture outside of its media for a more grounded outlook. Altogether, I had a fantastic time and thoroughly enjoyed attending the cherry blossom festival. I think a lot of people would like to do that as well, so I hope this post inspires you to look into the Japan-America Association in your area to see what events might be near you!

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Developmental edits by: Peggy Sue Wood | @pswediting

Copyedited by: Katherine Cañeba | @kcserinlee