The annual Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the biggest and most talked about events of the year in DC. This festival celebrates the gift of about 3,000 cherry blossom trees given by the Mayor of Tokyo to the United States in 1912. The cherry blossom is known to represent the beauty of life and how we should admire things while they last. From concerts to parties, this is your guide to the Cherry Blossom Festival.
1. National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade (Sat. April 13 from 10am-12pm)
If there is one event you go during the festival this is it. This parade is filled with gigantic colorful balloons, floats, dancing, music and more! If that’s not enough, there will be some special guest appearances such as Anthony Anderson, the star of ‘Black-ish’ as the Honorary Grand Marshall, the Washington Redskins Cheerleading Team and Christina Well a semi-finalist of ‘America’s Got Talent’, just to name a few. A whole parade just to celebrate the flowers.
2. Blossom Kite Flying Festival (Sat. March 29 from 10am-4:30pm)
Who doesn’t want to feel like a kid again? This festival might do the trick. Head down to the National Mall surrounded by the best kite flyers from around the world (yes, that’s a thing). See the kites in the beautiful sky with the backdrop of the blooming cherry blossoms. Seeing thousands of kites flying in the sky all at once is an experience you’ll never forget.
3. Petalpalooza (Sat. April 6 from 12pm-9:30pm)
Our very own Lalapalooza in DC, finally! Taking place at The Wharf, the festival is filled with live music at outdoor stages, various events for all ages and a beer garden. Some of the activities include a roller skating rink, interactive art exhibits, and a range of food options. To end the night, there is a fireworks show. This all-day spectacle has something for everyone and to top it off you are by the waterfront! We love a FREE event.
4. Paddle Boating and Swan Boats in the Tidal Basin (7 days a week until October 14th, rentals available from 10am-5pm)
Since the weather is warming up and the cherry blossoms are looking more and more beautiful each day, spending time down by the tidal basin is a must. While you can walk the pathways around the basin towards the Jefferson Memorial, consider renting a paddle boat or taking a ride on the swan boats instead for an even greater experience. Gather some friends and get out on the water for a unique cherry blossom viewing!
5. Go for a Walk and Take Photos on Peak Bloom Days
Sometimes the best ways to spend a day are the simplest. Between April 3rd and April 6th, it is projected that the cherry blossoms will reach their peak bloom, so head down to the tidal basin and admire the trees at no cost. Don’t forget to wear your favorite outfit and take some beautiful pictures in order to give your Instagram a boost of spring fun.