What a glorious day yesterday was for the press preview of the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival at the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens.

The press (and members of the public who happened to be in the gardens yesterday) were treated to short previews of what's to come this weekend. There was an unbelievably adorable group of pint-sized Suzuki violinists from the children's music program at Brooklyn College, parasol dancers in elaborate kimonos, a J-pop star and  taiko drumming.

But the real stars of the event were, of course, the voluptuous blossoms of the cherry trees that as of yesterday were in close to full bloom. From the height of the stairs near the entrance of the Gardens, they looked like a tantalizing pink canopy in the distance. Up close and personal they were a sight to behold.

There is even a Japanese word for the enjoyment of these trees. Hanami is "the cultural tradition of viewing and cherishing each moment of the cherry
blossom season." The idea is very lovely, a chance to be present in the now-moment to stroll, savor and share the beauty of the blossoms.

Trouble is, the event tends to get unbelievably crowded. That's why it was such a gift  to go when it was only slightly crowded but empty by Sakura Matsuri attendance standards.

And if only they didn't make me sneeze. Yesterday the pollen count must have been through the roof and I had an allergy attack almost immediately. Advice to allergy sufferers: Bring antinhistamine with you or take in advance of this weekend's festivities.

On their website, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden calls this event New York City's "rite of spring," And I have to concur. This is the 28th year of an annual event that always makes me sneeze — and smile.