Everything you need to know about the National Cherry Blossom Festival

What is the National Cherry Blossom Festival?

Every year in the springtime, Washington, D.C. is in bloom as the city celebrates the more than 3,000 Japanese cherry trees gifted by Tokyo's then-mayor, Yukio Ozaki, on March 27, 1912. The nearly month-long festival kicks off in late March with an opening ceremony at the Warner Theatre, featuring performances and artists from the U.S. and Japan, underscoring the enduring relationship between the two nations.

When is the National Cherry Blossom Festival?

This year, the events kick off on March 20, 2023 and wrap up on April 16, 2023.

Do I need tickets to participate in the celebration?

Nope! Most events throughout the span of the National Cherry Blossom Festival are free and open to the public. 

What kinds of cherry blossom events are you talking about?

Pink Tie Party: Local restaurants and bars set up shop at the Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center. The stunning queens of Absolutely Dragulous provide the entertainment this year, strutting their stuff down the blossom runway. Only those 21 and older can attend, and pink ties are encouraged! The event takes place on March 16 between 7pm and 11pm EST, and tickets are $225. Purchase your tickets here.

Blossom Kite Festival: Both professionals and newbies exercise their kite-flying skills through demonstrations and competitions right by the Washington Monument. BYO kite, purchase one at the event or grab a free kite kit you can decorate onsite. The event is free to the public and takes place on March 26 between 10am and 4:30pm.

Cherry Night: The festival's blossom-themed nightlife soiree goes down on March 31 from 7pm to 11pm. and it's free to attend with RSVP.

Petalpalooza: Held by the Capitol Riverfront, Petalpalooza is a free, all-day event (1-9pm) featuring live music, art installations, a fireworks show and a beer garden. Save the date: April 8, 2023.

National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade: This is a big one. Expect floats, marching bands, helium balloons, performers and more to walk through the annual parade. The route starts at Constitution Avenue between Seventh and 17th St NW. The event is free and open to the public and takes place on April 15, 2023, from 10am to noon. 

Sakura Matsuri - Japanese Street Festival: Experience more than two full days of Japanese arts and culture along Pennsylvania Avenue, between Third and Seventh Streets, on April 15 and 16.