5 Things You Need to Know Today: Cherry Blossom Fest, Free Kids Show, Foodie Talk, More

1. You need to go to the Sakura Matsuri Cherry Blossom Festival this year. Every year you think about going, but this year why not actually get there? It's supposed to be a gorgeous day. Not only will the esplanade be in peak bloom, but there will also be  including contemporary and traditional Japanese music and dance, taiko drumming, ikebana flower arranging, tea ceremonies, and workshops for kids and adults. Brooklyn Botanic Garden. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and tomorrow. $15, $10 students and seniors, kids 12 and under are free. Note, the line to get in can be long, so bring a cold drink and something to read. Members note: you can skip the line.

2. You need to get the kids out of the house. There are a ton of options today, including a performance by  at the Central Library. These three teachers from Seattle perform Beatles-influenced sing-alongs about friends, animals and more.  , Dweck Center, 1 p.m., all ages, Free. Or see our

3. You need to get your foodie fix. Don't miss  at the Central Libary. The two Franks (of Frankies 457 and Prime Meats) will talk recipes and tips from their latest cookbook, "Frankies Spuntino Kitchen Companion and Kitchen Manual."  , Saturday at 4 p.m. Free.

4. You need to see a show, and get to the park. Do both by seeing , where a cast of 12 perform this classic French comedy, Vaudevillian slapstick, intrigue, and romance. Music Pagoda at Prospect Park, 4 p.m., Free.

5. You need to know if your train is running, and if you have to move your car.  There are also no planned subway service changes affecting Prospect Heights trains today or for the whole weekend, according to the MTA. For drivers, there isn't another planned alternate side suspension until Memorial Day, according to the NYC DOT.