Cultured Pearl to host Cherry Blossom Beach Festival through March 20

Celebrating the 20-year sister relationship between the state of Delaware and Japan's Miyagi Prefecture, The Cultured Pearl in Rehoboth Beach is pleased to sponsor the first Cherry Blossom Beach Festival. A portion of the proceeds from all of the events will benefit the Cape Henlopen High School, Dover High School and Miyagi Student Exchange programs.

The Cherry Blossom Beach Festival began March 16, and continues through Monday, March 20. This is a cultural experience with activities for adults and the entire family. Take a sushi class, paint a work of art, enjoy traditional Japanese street foods, crafts, games, costumed anime characters, free entertainment with Bryan Clark and Cape's Savannah Shockley, and watch a Cosplay fashion show.

Events are located in the Shops at the Pearl Mall and the Cultured Pearl Restaurant on the corner of 4th Street and Rehoboth Avenue.

Friday, March 17, try something different at Sake Pour & More from 6 to 7:30 p.m.. Join host Laura Lamprecht for sake sampling paired with delicious Japanese foods prepared especially for this event. The evening is just beginning;, stay for performer Bryan Clark singing favorite tunes from Sinatra to Soul!

Saturday, March 18, is the festival highlight from 11:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Experience a family-friendly indoor Japanese Street Fair. Admission is free and open to the public. Crafts, games, candies, souvenirs, music and traditional Japanese street foods are available throughout the Pearl Mall. A colorful Cosplay fashion show begins at 1:30 p.m. Costumed anime characters will gladly pose for photos!

Sunday, March 19, join Master Sushi Chef Yasuhiro Sano for a fun-filled afternoon of everything sushi! Class is from 3 to 6 p.m., and includes hands-on instruction and dining.

Paint Night Pearl style is Sunday from 6 to 9 p.m. No experience necessary; just be ready to have fun. This class is hosted by artist Maiko Saleff. Cultured Pearl Happy Hour menu and cocktails make this a fun night out.

Monday night is everyone's favorite $15 Sushi Night Special includes entertainment featuring up and coming vocalist Savannah Shockley a senior at Cape Henlopen High School.

Event class space is limited. Call ahead for reservations at 302-227-8493. For additional information go to www.cherryblossombeachfest.com