March 30, 2008, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
 

The Wistaria Vine is a blooming plant reported to be the world's largest in world will be on display during the Annual Wistaria Festival.   The massive vine bears delicately scented lavender blooms, the color we most often associate with wistaria (also spelled, "wisteria").

Visitors are invited to stroll beneath the arbor supporting the branches of the 112-year-old vine, displaying more than a million blossoms and estimated to weigh at least 250 tons. That must be one sturdy garden arbor!

Downtown Sierra Madre is also changed in to an open market with all kind of craft and food.
 

http://www.sierramadrenews.net/wistaria.htm
 

So old and large is this wistaria that the town of Sierra Madre honors its famous flora with a festival each spring. While tickets to view the vine are sold in advance (the plant is actually growing in a private backyard). The festival, which includes strolling musicians, food booths and a classic car show, is free to all. Look for the party where Sierra Madre Blvd. intersects Baldwin Ave.,  And if you don't get to see the vine,  the outdoor festival is worth a trip to Sierra Madre.

Call the Sierra Madre Chamber of Commerce for more information on visiting the vine (a timed ticket is required to help the flow of flower fans).