Celebrating Cherry Blossom Season with Purpose
A Thousand Cranes for Wishes: Celebrating Cherry Blossom Season with Purpose
Spring in Vancouver means cherry blossoms painting the city in soft pinks, and this year, Fairmont Vancouver Airport is embracing the season with a heartfelt initiative—folding 1,000 origami cranes in support of Make-A-Wish Canada.
From March 28 to April 29, they invite everyone to be part of The 1,000 Crane Challenge, a collective effort to fold cranes while raising funds for children facing critical illnesses. Whether you're a guest stopping by or part of our hotel team, everyone can participate. Here’s how:
Donate $3 at the front desk or by ordering the special "Wish Dish" Bento Box at Jetside Bar. Each donation comes with origami paper and instructions to fold a crane, which will join a growing art installation in our lobby.
The Bento Box ($36) is a vibrant, Japanese-inspired meal featuring temari sushi (with ahi tuna, ikura, and Hokkaido scallop), prawn and sweet potato tempura, chicken yakitori, and sweet red bean mochi—perfect for lunch or dinner.
On April 29 (World Wish Day), they’ll wrap up the fundraiser, celebrating the kindness of everyone who contributed.
Why 1,000 Cranes?
The tradition of folding senbazuru—10,000 origami cranes—comes from a beautiful Japanese legend that says completing them grants a wish or brings good fortune. The story of Sadako Sasaki, a young girl who folded cranes while battling leukemia, turned this practice into a global symbol of hope and resilience.
For children waiting for their wishes, every crane we fold represents a little more hope.
"Every two hours, a child in Canada is diagnosed with a critical illness, and right now, nearly 4,000 children are waiting for their wish to come true—including over 500 in our own region," says Christie Buono, Chapter Director of Make-A-Wish Canada, BC & Yukon. "By joining the 1,000 Crane Challenge, you’re helping give these kids something priceless: the chance to dream again."
A Cherry Blossom Oasis at Jetside Bar
To set the mood, we’ve brought a decorative cherry tree into Jetside Bar, where you can enjoy the blossoms alongside panoramic runway views. And if you’re in the mood for a seasonal sip, try one of our new Japanese-inspired cocktails:
The Paper Crane ($22) – A bright, citrusy twist on the Paper Plane, made with Suntory Toki Whisky and yuzu, garnished with a tiny origami crane.
Sakura Spritz ($21) – A floral, refreshing blend of sake, rosé, cherry purée, and yuzu, like spring in a glass.
This season is about more than just beauty—it’s about coming together for something meaningful. Whether you fold a crane, share a meal, or simply spread the word, you’re helping make wishes come true.
