The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington DC is a citywide festival that celebrates the 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry blossom trees to Washington, DC by the mayor of Tokyo. The festival features a range of spectacular events, from its eponymous kite extravaganza on the National Mall to fun cultural experiences like sake tastings, etc. Local restaurants even get into the spirit with the Cherry Picks program, while DC-area hotels offer blossom-themed packages, deals and discounts. And it all leads up to the main events: Petalpalooza, formerly known as the Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival, and the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade.
Pink Tie Party, March 22
Show off your duds and support the blossoms at this exclusive pink tie fundraiser, where a ticket will give you access to one sophisticated celebration. Mixologists go toe-to-toe with their own heady cherry blossom concoctions, while chefs from popular eateries including Pisco y Nazca, Texas de Brazil and District Winery get into the spirit by rustling up spring-themed eats. There's also dancing and a silent auction that you will not want to miss.
Tidal Basin Welcome Area & Performance Stage
Throughout the National Cherry Blossom Festival, visitors will flock to the National Mall's Tidal Basin to see gorgeous cherry blossom trees. The area will host the National Park Service and its partners, who will provide visitor services, including food, souvenirs and books. Park rangers will be present to answer questions as well. In addition, you can catch live performances every day. Entrance to this area is free of charge.
Smithsonian American Art Museum Cherry Blossom Celebration
Join one of DC’s most popular museums in celebrating the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The free event will take place at the Smithsonian American Art Museum inside its gorgeous Kogod Courtyard. Expect a taiko drumming performance, Japanese dancing, face painting, cherry blossom-themed crafts, a scavenger hunt for spring-themed art and much more.
National Cherry Blossom Opening Ceremony, March 23
Die-hard blossom-goers make a point to be official about their visit by reserving tickets to this free event. Experience the festival on stage, through traditional and contemporary performances at the Warner Theatre on Sunday, March 23. This year's showcase features the cast members of "Pretty Guardian Sailor Moon" The Super Live making their North American debut and an original interpretation from violinist Ikuko Kawai. *Note: There will be a $5 registration fee when tickets are claimed.
Blossom Kite Festival, March 30
Head to the Washington Monument grounds for this kite-flying festival. Watch expert kite fliers from all over the world participate in the Hot Tricks Showdown, a stunt kite-flying event. Make sure you bring your camera.
21st Annual Cherry Blossom Freedom Walk, April 6
Lace up your sneakers for this stroll, which commemorates Japanese Americans and their experience during the Second World War and encourages the continued defense of civil liberties for all Americans. The walk begins and ends at the intersection of Louisiana & New Jersey Avenues NW, the site of the National Japanese American Memorial.
Petalpalooza, April 6
Get ready for more than eight straight hours of free tunes, all-ages activities, a beer garden, interactive art installations and games, all capped off by fireworks at The Wharfduring Petalpalooza (formerly known as the Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival). Folks can explore DC's hottest new development and grab a great seat for the fireworks show. Entertainment begins at 12 p.m. and is capped off with fireworks at 8:30 p.m, weather permitting.
National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade presented by Events DC, April 13
The culmination of the three-week festival yields arguably its most popular event: the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade. Catch everything from giant helium balloons to elaborate floats to live musical performances. Hunker down in the grandstand, or walk along the parade route – which runs for 10 blocks along Constitution Avenue NW – for free.
Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival, April 13
The largest one-day Japanese cultural festival in the United States, the Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival is an event for all ages. Check out more than 80 cultural groups, art vendors, food booths and more than 30 total hours of programming. The event is held on Pennsylvania Avenue from 3rd to 7th Streets NW.