Over 2000 Jacaranda trees line the city parks and streets, blooming from mid-October before peaking in mid-November.
Canada is known for its Tulip Festival in May and Japan is known for its cherry blossoms through spring; but have you heard about the Jacaranda blossoms in Sydney? Commonly known as the “Dream Tree”, these lilac trees paint the Harbour City in a sea of purple from October to November annually.
Though native to South America, Jacaranda trees also thrive in Sydney’s warm, dry climate. Over 2000 Jacaranda trees line the city parks and streets, blooming from mid-October before peaking in mid-November.
If you’re looking to capture some Insta-worthy photographs with these lilac beauties, here are some of the best spots to catch them in full bloom.
Royal Botanic Gardens
Those visiting the Sydney hub will find a picturesque trail of purple around the Royal Botanic Gardens, which boasts the oldest Jacaranda tree dating back to the 1850s. Alongside the blossoms are thousands of other plant specimens as well as wildlife such as colourful birds, fruit bats and water dragons. At the heart of the gardens is The Calyx, where electrifying world-class exhibitions come to life. What better way to kill two birds with one stone?
Circular Quay
A leisurely stroll away from the Botanic Gardens will find visitors at the popular Circular Quay. Here is where blooming jacarandas frame the iconic Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and the quaint cobbled pathways leading to The Rocks – altogether making up the definition of picture perfect memories.
Grafton Jacaranda Festival
For a fun, interactive and full-blown Jacaranda experience with family and friends, the Grafton Jacaranda Festival is the place to be. Taking place from 27 October to 4 November, the annual festival is held under giant canopies of the purple blossoms and features arts, crafts and sporting groups showcasing their handiwork. The highlights of the event include the crowning of the Jacaranda Queen and Princesses, a float parade, a family concert and a Fun Run on the final day.
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Surry Hills
Sydney’s liveliest suburb, Surry Hills, offers a balance of exciting gastronomy enveloped by the serenity of nature. Cafe hoppers and foodies can get a quick coffee fix or enjoy a meal at the top brunch spots while shopaholics can visit the neighbouring boutiques and vintage shops in between snapping away at the magnificent purple blooms at every street corner. Who says you can’t get the best of both worlds?
University of Sydney
You don’t have to be a student at the university to appreciate the purple haze on campus every year. But if you are, you’d probably do well to study ahead of the season as legend has it that anyone who hasn’t started revisions before the first jacaranda blooms is doomed to fail. On the bright side, there are plenty of flowering trees to take shade under whether you’re here to study, have a picnic or get that scenic shot for the gram.
For more information, visit New South Wales’ official tourism website here.