City News

Sister City Delegation from Takeo Japan Visits During Apple Blossom Parade

May 2, 2025, City News

A little light drizzle did nothing to dampen the spirits of all those who participated in the 79th Annual Apple Blossom Parade and Festival held April 26-27. Organized by the Sebastopol Chamber of Commerce, the Festival theme was “Flower Power.” A special highlight was the visit of a delegation from one of our Sister Cities, Takeo Japan. Takeo Mayor Tadashi Komatu, along with three members of the Takeo City Council, joined Sebastopol’s City Council in Saturday’s parade down Main Street.  The group also visited City Hall and were welcomed by Sebastopol Acting City Manager Mary Gourley and Councilmembers.

Takeo has been a Sister City to Sebastopol since 1985, but we’ll bet this is the first time they’ve been greeted by thousands of cheering fans! The trip was organized by Sebastopol World Friends, whose motto is “World Peace, One Friend at a Time.”