Cherry blossom activity guide: Festivals and fun
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Cherry blossom peak bloom is here early and there's floral fun to be had throughout spring.
Why it matters: D.C. goes all-in on cherry blossom activities and there's something for everyone.
Big blossom: The official National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20-April 14) is packed with activities. Favorites include:
🎶 Tidal Basin stage for musical performances throughout the festival, food trucks, and a garden-esque beer tent run by Old Ox Brewery.
🪁 Blossom Kite Festival (March 30): A day on the National Mall full of traditional Japanese kite performances and kitemaker competitions for kids and adults.
🎈 The Parade (April 13): A color burst procession down Constitution Avenue with balloons, floats, and marching bands. It's free but seated tickets ($25-$40) are also available.
Food & drink: Check out these events in addition to cherry blossom pop-up bars.
🍣 Cherry Blossom Dinner (March 20): Sushi master Masaaki "Uchi" Uchino joins Brian Landry of Alhambra for a blowout dinner showcasing the best of Japan and Spain (tickets $300).
🍻 Cherry Fest (March 20-April 7): Wunder Garten in NoMa transforms its beer garden with a sake bar, Japanese beers, and activities like sip n' paint and trivia.
🍶 Spring Sake Festival (April 5): Sample 100+ sakes and learn from the pros at Hotel Zena's tasting event (tickets $85-$130).
Art & experiences: It's a visual sensation, after all.
💫 Artechouse (Through June 1): "Isekai: Blooming Parallel Worlds," the digital art gallery's newest immersive exhibit, explores florals inspired by female artists and anime.
💃 Bloomaroo (March 23): The Wharf's big (free!) blossom party is a mix of concerts, live karaoke, tea, and beer gardens, and fireworks come nighttime.