In Showa 34, the Lilac Festival began at the call of cultural figures to "hold a cultural rich event during the season when lilac flowers are in full bloom." Lilacs were selected as the city tree of Sapporo in Showa 35, becoming a beloved tree seen in the gardens of many homes. Today, the festival has become popular among citizens as a herald of the early summer arrival in Sapporo, growing into a representative spring event of the city. At the “Odori Venue” with about 400 lilac trees in full bloom, there are various events such as the Lilac Spring Stage, open-air tea ceremony "Nodate", stamp rally, and at the “Kawashimo Venue” added since the 50th event, there are lilac tours, Kawashimo park concerts, etc. For the citizens of Sapporo, this festival is a fanfare announcing the arrival of the season for enjoying outdoor strolls, finally being liberated from the long winter of over half a year.