Cherry Blossom Washington DC Festival is an annual celebration of the blooming of the cherry blossom trees in the nation’s capital. The festival has a long history, dating back to March 27, 1912, when Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo City gifted 3,000 cherry trees to the city of Washington, D.C. The cherry trees symbolized friendship and goodwill between the United States and Japan. Their arrival was celebrated with great fanfare. Today, the National Cherry Blossom Festival continues this tradition of celebrating the relationship between the two nations.
The Cherry Blossom Festival is a multi-week event that will take place from Wednesday, March 20, to Sunday, April 14, 2024.
During this time, the National Cherry Blossom Festival hosts various events and activities, such as a parade, concerts, cultural performances, and a kite festival. These events are designed to appeal to people of all ages and backgrounds.
Cherry Blossom Festival Events Schedule and Details
Here are the details of the Cherry Blossom Festival events:
PINK TIE PARTY
Location: Union Station, 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
Hours: Thursday, March 15, 2024 – 9 – 6 PM
Cost: $250
About the event:
Get ready to celebrate the arrival of spring in style at the 2024 Pink Tie Party. The premier reception-style event of the season, hosted by TCMA (A Drew Company) at the prestigious Union Station.
This unforgettable soirée will have dazzling flavors, incredible entertainment, and more. It is highly recommended that guests wear their finest pink attire to truly immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere.
TIDAL BASIN WELCOME AREA & ANA STAGE
Location: West Basin Drive S.W.
Hours: To be announced
Cost: Free
About the Event:
Indulge in the beauty of the National Cherry Blossom Festival’s peak bloom at the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC. The live performances amongst the blossoms at the Tidal Basin pay homage to the longstanding friendship between the United States and Japan.
The arrangements are a dynamic and cross-cultural mix of American, Japanese, and other performing arts. This creates a one-of-a-kind experience that celebrates the cultural exchange between both countries, making it an event to be noticed.
The stage performance will occur from 12 PM to 6 PM during the peak bloom period, regardless of weather conditions. The welcome area will be open from 10 AM to 6 PM in addition to the performance times.
BLOSSOM KITE FESTIVAL
Location: Washington Monument Grounds and Featured Parks in DC, Maryland, and Virginia
Hours: Saturday, March 30, 2024 – 10 AM – 4:30 PM
Cost: Free
About the Event:
Prepare for a day of fun, music, competitions, and performances at the Washington Monument Grounds. The 2024 Blossom Kite Festival excites kite enthusiasts, beginners, families, and friends. Participants are encouraged to bring their kites, but those without one can purchase one onsite or pick up a free kite kit to decorate.
The festival will include a dynamic Sakura Taiko Fest at Sylvan Theater, produced by Miyako Taiko and sponsored by Chase. This day-long celebration will feature traditional Japanese drumming that will delight attendees.
One of the festival’s highlights will be a special appearance by Mr. Mikio Toki, a master of traditional Edo-style kites who travels from Japan to showcase his kites for festivalgoers. This will be a unique opportunity to witness his mastery and expertise in kite-making. In addition, the festival will feature performances and demonstrations by the local Wings Over Washington Kite Club. Spectators will be able to marvel at the skills of these experienced kite enthusiasts as they perform stunts and tricks with their kites in the sky.
OPENING CEREMONY
Location: Warner Theatre 513 13th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20004 & via Livestream
Hours: Saturday, March 23, 2024 – 5:00 – 6:30 PM
Cost: $5 registration fee only
About the Event:
The National Cherry Blossom Festival’s highly anticipated signature event. The Opening Ceremony is a vibrant artistic celebration of the gift of cherry blossom trees from Tokyo to Washington, DC, in 1912. The event is also an annual tribute to the longstanding friendship between Japan and the United States. This year, the Opening Ceremony promises to be a unique and unforgettable experience, with special performances by acclaimed artists with strong connections to both countries. These performances are set to showcase the rich cultural traditions and heritage of both nations, making the event a celebration of diversity and inclusivity.
It’s worth noting that this performance is a one-time-only event, so attendees can expect a truly exclusive experience. It’s an event that should be noticed by everyone who wants to immerse themselves in the rich culture and traditions of Japan and the United States.
THE NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL PARADE
Location: Constitution Avenue N.W., between 7th and 17th Streets, Washington, DC
Hours: Saturday, April 13, 2024 – 10 AM – 12 PM
Cost:
$40 Telecast (East End, 7th – 9th Streets)
$25-$30 Grandstand (West End, 15th – 17th Streets)
About the Event:
The Nation’s Springtime Parade is scheduled to make a comeback. The Parade will occur on Constitution Avenue in Washington, DC, on Saturday, April 13, 2024. The Parade promises to be a lively and exciting event featuring an array of spectacular attractions that celebrate the arrival of spring.
Among the highlights of the Parade are fantastic, colorful helium balloons, which will add a touch of whimsy to the event. In addition, there will be elaborate floats that will showcase intricate designs. Marching bands nationwide will provide rousing music as they go down the Parade route. Celebrity entertainers and performers will also be on hand to add to the festive atmosphere. Their acts will perfectly complement the Parade’s showmanship and music, creating an unforgettable experience for all attendees.
The Parade will take place along Constitution Avenue between 9th and 15th Streets. While portions of the Parade route are accessible to the public, they are available on a first-come, first-served basis. So, reserve your seats to guarantee your spot and avoid any disappointment.
PETALPALOOZA, PRESENTED BY CHASE
Location: Capitol Riverfront at the Yards Navy Yard Metro (Dept of Transportation Exit) Fireworks also visible from Anacostia Park
Hours: Saturday, April 6, 2024 – 1 – 9 PM
Cost: Free
About the Event:
Indulge in the joys of spring and join the Petalpalooza celebration, presented by Chase, for a day of live music and exciting activities! Petalpalooza is a family-friendly event offering great art, music, and interactive activities on multiple outdoor stages. Along with the Petalpalooza Art Walk featuring interactive art installations, there will be a cashless beverage garden, hands-on exercises suitable for all ages, and roaming D.C. sports mascots and entertainers, all taking place along the beautiful Anacostia River.
And that’s not all – the evening culminates with the breathtaking National Cherry Blossom Festival Fireworks Show set to music at 8:30 PM. This FREE event promises to be a day of fun and entertainment that you will remember.
Where to Track the Cherry Blossom Progress?
The temperature-sensitive process means warmer weather promotes earlier blooming, whereas cooler temperatures delay it. In some cases, there may be no peak bloom, like what happened in 2016, which was caused by unpredictable weather patterns in the winter and early spring.
Estimating the peak bloom period of cherry blossoms can be challenging, but some indicators can help.
Cherry Blossoms Peak Stages:
Stage One: Green Buds – Cherry blossoms appear before the leaves on the tree. The first sign of their arrival is the appearance of fat, round green buds on the tree branches.
Stage Two: Visible Florets – Around 14 days before peak bloom, the buds swell, and small flowers (florets) become visible.
Stage Three: Floret Extension – Roughly 12 days before peak bloom, the florets (deep pink at this stage) start to extend out of the buds.
Stage Four: Peduncle Elongation – 6 to 10 days before peak bloom, the flower stems (peduncles) elongate, and the individual blossoms become visible. Blossoms are highly susceptible to frost at this stage.
Stage Five: Fluffy White – 4 to 6 days before peak bloom, the fluffy white Sakura blossoms start to open. Each flower opens at a different time.
Stage Six: Peak Bloom – “Peak bloom” occurs when at least 70% of the blossoms are open. Once open, the flowers can last from 4 to 10 days, depending on the weather conditions. Cool and calm weather can prolong the bloom, while warm and unsettled weather can shorten it.
The blooming period commences when 20% of the cherry blossoms open and concludes when the petals start falling. “Peak bloom” occurs when at least 70% of the blossoms have opened. The flowers usually last about 4-10 days, depending on weather conditions, with cool, calm weather extending the bloom period and warm, unsettled weather shortening it.
What is the Best Time to Visit the Cherry Blossoms?
The time of day to visit the cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C., depends on a few factors, such as your personal preference, schedule, and how crowded you’re willing to tolerate. However, the best time of day to visit the cherry blossoms in Washington D.C. is either early morning or evening for a less crowded experience.
Visiting in the early morning, right after sunrise, can be a great option if you’re an early riser or want to avoid crowds. You’ll be able to see the cherry blossoms in a peaceful, tranquil setting before the groups start to arrive. Additionally, the morning light can make for some great photo opportunities.
On the other hand, visiting in the evening can be a good option if you have a busy schedule during the day. The crowds also tend to thin out in the evening, making it a more peaceful and relaxing experience.
On weekends and when the blooms are at peak, you should expect more people, and visiting during off-peak times can help you avoid the crowds. However, remember that cherry blossoms are a popular attraction, and there will likely be people there no matter when you visit. But regardless of when you visit, seeing the beautiful cherry blossoms is always worth it.
Peak Cherry Bloom in Washington DC Dates
The much-awaited question of when the Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC, is at its peak has a varying answer each year. Generally, the average date for peak bloom is around April 4, when 70% of the cherry blossom flowers are in full bloom. However, peak bloom can happen as early as March 15 or as late as April 18, depending on the weather conditions leading up to the bloom. The blooming period can take up to 14 days, including the days leading up to peak bloom.
The National Park Service (NPS) provides annual official peak bloom date predictions on its website. It’s important to note that it’s nearly impossible to predict the exact date of peak blooms more than ten days in advance. The peak bloom for 2024 to be announced.
Best Place to See Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC
The Tidal Basin is the most famous and popular spot when seeing cherry blossoms in Washington, DC. Over 3,700 cherry trees can be found around the basin, attracting many tourists annually. The basin is surrounded by white granite monuments, including the Thomas Jefferson Memorial and the Washington Monument, providing a stunning backdrop for cherry blossom pictures.
Visitors can stroll along the shoreline of East Potomac Park, which extends to Hains Point, to enjoy a breathtaking view of the cherry blossoms. This area and the Jefferson Memorial, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial provide great photo opportunities.
Besides the Tidal Basin, visitors can find small clusters of cherry trees near the Lincoln Memorial and around the Washington Monument along the National Mall. For those who want to explore off-the-radar cherry blossom trees, there are locations like the National Arboretum, Anacostia Park, and Dumbarton Oaks.
Cherry Blossoms Dumbarton Oaks
Best Places to See the Cherry Blossoms Near Washington DC
If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, consider visiting the Kenwood neighborhood in Bethesda, MD, or Hains Point, a peninsula that juts into the Potomac River. Both locations offer beautiful views of the cherry blossoms and other outdoor activities and amenities.
To learn more about the best places to see cherry blossoms near Washington, DC, check out this blog with locations in Maryland and Virginia, 28 Cherry Blossoms Spots Near Washington, DC.
Best Cherry Blossoms DC Tours
During the peak bloom season, several excellent cherry blossom tours are available in Washington, DC. Here are some of the best ones:
The DC Cherry Blossom Tour: This tour takes you to the most popular cherry blossom spots in D.C., including the Tidal Basin, Jefferson Memorial, and the National Mall. The time includes a guide who will provide information about the history of the cherry blossoms and their significance to the city.
Cherry Blossom Bike Tour: A bike tour is an excellent option to see the cherry blossoms on two wheels. The Cherry Blossom Bike Tour in Washington, D.C., is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of springtime. The tour takes visitors through some of the most stunning locations in the city, including the Tidal Basin, the National Mall, and the Potomac River.
During the spring, cherry blossom trees in D.C. are in full bloom, painting the city in beautiful shades of pink and white. The Cherry Blossom Bike Tour is a perfect way to experience the cherry blossoms up close and personal, immersing yourself in the city’s stunning beauty.
The tour typically lasts for around three hours and is led by an experienced guide who will provide you with all the necessary information about the sites and the city’s history. The tour is suitable for all levels of riders, as the pace is leisurely, and the route is mostly flat and easy to ride.
Cherry Blossom Boat Tour: Experience the beauty of the cherry blossoms from a unique perspective on a boat tour along the Potomac River, with up-close views of the iconic cherry blossoms. The Cherry Blossom Boat tour is one of the best ways to avoid crowds.
Cherry Blossom Segway Tour: Another fun way to see the cherry blossoms is on a Segway tour. Segways are self-balancing electric vehicles that allow visitors to explore the city in a fun and unique way. This tour takes you to the Tidal Basin, National Mall, and other cherry blossom locations while riding a Segway.
One of the benefits of the Segway tour is that it covers more ground than the bike tour, allowing visitors to see more of the city and the cherry blossom trees. Segways are also an eco-friendly mode of transportation, making them an excellent option for those who want to explore while minimizing their carbon footprint.
Late Blooming Cherry Trees Near DC
If you are looking for late-blooming cherry trees near Washington, DC, one option is the Kwanzan cherry tree. Kwanzan cherry trees typically bloom in late April to early May, a bit later than other varieties.
The Tidal Basin in Washington, DC, is famous for its cherry blossom trees, but those typically bloom in late March to early April. If you want to venture outside the city, consider visiting the Kenwood neighborhood in Bethesda, MD. This area is known for its beautiful cherry blossom-lined streets, including many Kwanzan cherry trees that bloom later in the season.
Another option is to visit the National Arboretum in northeast Washington, DC. The Arboretum has a wide variety of cherry tree species, including some that bloom later in the season. It’s always best to check with the Arboretum before your visit to find out which trees are in bloom and when.
The Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C., is a truly unique and unforgettable experience that celebrates the arrival of spring in the nation’s capital. With a wide range of events and activities, including cultural performances, art exhibits, and spectacular cherry blossom displays, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor from out of town, the festival offers a chance to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Washington, D.C., and to create memories that will last a lifetime.
So, if you can attend the festival, don’t miss it – you won’t be disappointed!
