A local's guide to Cherry Blossom Festival events in D.C.

Yes, but: Savvy locals know better: There are 25+ official events, and plenty are worth your time.

🌸 A few favorites:

🎨 National Museum of Asian Art's Festival (through April 20): A month-long celebration packed with entertainment — think a Kyoto kimono pop-up, film screenings, family tea workshops and more.

🪁 Blossom Kite Festival (March 28): A local favorite for a reason. Expect a full day of high-flying competition, plus plenty of space for kids (and adults) to join in.

• While you're on the Mall, swing by the Smithsonian American Art Museum's festival for live music, dance and kid-friendly crafts.

🧺 Oxon Run Pinknic & Kite Fly (March 29): One of the best neighborhood gatherings of blossom season. The Southeast park's 200+ cherry trees could be at peak bloom for this party with vendors, music and kites.

🍶 Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival (April 11-12): The Japanese festival is a blast — 24+ hours of entertainment with Sumo wrestling, J-Pop music, ticketed sake tastings, street food and more.

🥁Tamagawa University Dance and Taiko Group (April 10): Thunderous drums plus high-energy dance at the Kennedy Center from one of Japan's top groups.

🎊 Festival Parade (April 11): Even if you're not a "parade person" (hi, me), the 10-block procession of dancers, musicians and springtime floats is almost guaranteed to melt your winterized heart.