National Cherry Blossom Festival
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Celebrate the cherry blossoms with a wide variety of spring-themed events produced by the National Cherry Blossom Festival
At the Pink Tie Party, held in iconic Union Station, guests will be whisked away to an unforgettable world of DC’s cherry blossoms mixed with sophisticated Venetian aura and vibrant Brazilian Carnival energy. Food, fashion, and fun will intertwine for a memorable and joyful evening. Guests flaunt their best pink and floral attire, inspired by the event’s spring Carnival atmospheres, as they walk through themed halls and experience each of the featured cities through carefully curated food and cocktails from local DC-area restaurants.
7-11 p.m. | More Information
National Cherry Blossom Festival
The National Cherry Blossom Festival's Opening Ceremony co-presented with the Japan Foundation, celebrate the 113th anniversary of the gift of trees with an exciting tribute to the longstanding relationship between Japan and the United States. The spectacle at the historic Warner Theatre features world-renowned artists connected to both the U.S. and Japan who gather on the stage together for one-night only. Early access to tickets to this epic spring celebration can be obtained by signing up for the Festival's email list. The event will also be livestreamed on the Festival's YouTube channel.
5-6:30 p.m. | More Information
Head to the Washington Monument grounds for this free kite-flying extravaganza presented by Amazon, and experience the magic of one of the most highly anticipated events of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Kite flyers, from first timers to long-time masters, will experience kite-making and kite-flying competitions and demonstrations, family-friendly activities, arts and crafts, and more. Pack a picnic to sit back and enjoy the sights, then wander over to Sakura Taiko Fest featuring an incredible lineup of taiko drummers from across the country as they take centerstage at the Sylvan Theatre.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. | More Information
National Cherry Blossom Festival
The one-day neighborhood takeover presented by Chase features live music across multiple stages, interactive art installations, family-friendly activities, food and beverage vendors, roaming performers, photo opportunities and more. Petalpalooza® will take place at The Yards Park in Capitol Riverfront and is free for all ages to attend. Be sure to stay for the official National Cherry Blossom Festival fireworks show.
1-9 p.m. | More Information
Witness DC's grandest petal procession with the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade® presented by Events DC. Catch everything from giant helium balloons to elaborate floats to live musical performances. Enjoy prime performance viewing in the grandstand (tickets are $25-$40), or stand along the parade route – which runs for 10 blocks along Constitution Avenue NW – for free.
10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. | More Information
The Sakura Matsuri, produced by the Japan-America Society of Washington DC, spans two exciting days. The event presents more than 80 cultural groups, art vendors, food booths and dozens of hours of programming. You can also enjoy a Ginza Marketplace, popular Japan Now! Pavilion, a cosplay contest, sake tasting and more. This goes down on Pennsylvania Avenue from 3rd to 7th Streets NW. Advance ticket purchase is strongly recommended.
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