This DMV tradition celebrates the beautiful cherry blossoms that herald spring every year. From the parade to the kite festival, there are tons of activities for the whole family to enjoy.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival actually lasts much longer than the delicate flowers do. From March to April you can celebrate Japanese culture and springtime in D.C. at several events all over the region. See the full list on the National Cherry Blossom Festival website.
Here are some of the highlights:
Pink Tie Party on March 22
Location: Ronald Reagan Building | 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue | Washington, D.C.
Kick off the Cherry Blossom Festival with a night of gourmet food from the city's best restaurants, delicious drinks, music, and dancing. Try your hand at the silent auction and paint the town pink at this annual gala.
Tickets are $225 per person and available for purchase online. You must be 21+ to attend this event and present your I.D. at the door with your ticket.
Opening Ceremony on March 23
Location: Warner Theatre | 513 13th Street NW | Washington, D.C.
Unfortunately, this cultural showcase is already sold out for 2019. It will feature Japanese musicians, dancers, and even Sailor Moon!
Blossom Kite Festival on March 30
Location: Washington Monument | 17th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW | Washington, D.C.
Watch as hundreds of kites take flight over the skies of D.C. Better yet, fly your own! While supplies last, children can even make a kite at an activity station. This is a free event and shouldn't be missed.
Sakura Taiko Takeover on March 31
Location: Tidal Basin
From 12 to 6 p.m., enjoy the dramatic music of Japanese drums at the ANA Tidal Basin Stage. Tickets are not required for this free event, so stop by if you're in the area!
Petalpalooza on April 6
Location: The Wharf | 1100 Maine Avenue SW | Washington, D.C.
From 12 to 9:30 p.m., the D.C. Wharf will be hopping with live music, activities, a beer garden, and fireworks. The entire half-mile will be a celebration of spring culminating with the fireworks show at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are not required for this free event.
Cherry Blossom Festival Parade on April 13
Location: Constitution Avenue from 7th-17th Streets NW | Washington, D.C.
The streets of the city will be filled with petals as onlookers cheer on local bands, floats, dancers, and balloons. The Washington Redskins cheerleaders will be there -- will you?
Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival on April 13
Location: 555 Pennsylvania Avenue NW | Washington, D.C.
After the parade, head to this exciting street festival to enjoy Japanese food, vendors, and cultural exhibitions on four stages. This event is rain or shine, so come prepared!
Tickets are available for purchase online and are $10 per person (FREE for children under 12). For $50 per person, you can combine your entry ticket with a Sake Tasting Fastpass which includes a souvenir glass and bottle of water.
*All photos in this article are courtesy of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.
To learn more about events happening each week, visit the National Cherry Blossom Festival website.
Are you excited about the Cherry Blossom Festival? What are some of your favorite events? Let us know in the comments below.