Macon Cherry Blossom Festivities in Full Swing | News

Macon is budding with excitement as the Cherry Blossom Festivities kick off today at noon.

Organizers and vendors have been preparing all week for the 10-day celebration as the city prepares to be bathed in pink.

Events begin with opening ceremonies at Central City Park. The noon kickoff is free to the public.

The Cherry Blossom Festival runs March 16 through March 25.

The official ribbon cutting puts the 30th anniversary of the Cherry Blossom Festival in full swing.

Festival chairman Steve Farr says, "It's beautiful weather. The cherry blossoms are blooming and we encourage everybody in central Georgia to come out and

It brings out first timers and some seasoned veterans like Annie Alexander, who says she's been to about 10 festivals.

She told us her favorite part of the pink party. "Most of all the atmosphere and to be out in the crowds and getting out."

From the foods to the rides, the festival works to embrace the founding principles of beauty, love and international friendship

Macon Mayor Robert Reichert spoke at the opening ceremony. "I know you're going to have a great time," he told dozens of folks gathered around.

Kathrine Francis brought her six month old daughter for her first Cherry Blossom experience.

"I'm hoping if we show her the family tradition of doing it, that she'll continue to do the Cherry Blossom Festival as long as it goes," she says.

Organizers say with the event comes a big boom for central Georgia.

"We expect over 300,000 visitors in central Georgia. They include a lot of international guests," says Farr. "The festival has over a $19-million annual impact so it's a very important festival."

Bringing folks from all over to Macon as they paint the town pink.

Click here for a full listing of all the festivities.