Washington DC Event Planner Guide - Do NOT DELETE
The District In Bloom
2017-03-30 08:05:55
The blooming of Japanese cherry blossom trees and the corresponding National Cherry Blossom Festival turn DC into an incredible springtime spectacle.
Jefferson Memorial
FESTIVAL FUN
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of DC’s signature celebrations, with thousands flocking to witness the peak bloom of the blossoms each year. The average peak bloom date is April 4, but check nps.gov/cherry for the latest prediction about when the trees will look their best.
This year marks the 90th anniversary of the festival, providing another reason to celebrate. Highlights include the Opening Ceremony (March 25) featuring Japanese-themed performances inside the Warner Theatre, and on the same day, the Smithsonian American Art Museum’s Cherry Blossom Celebration for children and families.
The Washington Monument grounds play host to the Blossom Kite Festival (on April 1) before the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade presented by Events DC (on April 8, DC’s Emancipation Day), Cherry Blast produced by Events DC (on April 14) and the Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival presented by Harris Teeter (on April 15).
CityCenterDC, National Cherry Blossom Festival
BUT THERE’S MORE!
The festival also features the City In Bloom program, with iconic buildings and storefronts sporting pink lighting and themed decals to signify cherry blossom spirit. Participants include Arena Stage, Capital Wheel, CityCenterDC and the Warner Theatre.
The Cherry Picks program means creative spring-themed menus at DC restaurants, including Quarter and Glory, Station Kitchen, Daikaya and Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Company.
National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade
EXPERIENCE CULTURE
Asian culture and cuisine pair perfectly with cherry blossom season. Visit the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum inside the U.S. National Arboretum, which features centuries-old Japanese bonsai trees, beautiful outdoor pavilions and Asianinspired moon gates. Head to the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery to view Asian art in different genres and be sure not to miss the polka dot-filled Yayoi Kusama exhibit at the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden.
Blossom Kite Festival Photo by John Taylor
BLOSSOMS AROUND TOWN
The Tidal Basin is the most widely known spot for capturing the cherry blossoms, but have Instagram ready when you visit these other locales. Use the hashtag: #MyDCcool.
• Hains Point in East Potomac Park has a gorgeous loop trail that showcases cherry blossoms and the Potomac River.
• Stanton Park in historic Capitol Hill features a dramatic display of cherry blossom trees bursting into bloom.
• Dumbarton Oaks in Georgetown is one of the city’s best-kept secrets, with incredible views, rose gardens and blossoming cherry trees. Regular garden admission is $10.
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