The National Cherry Blossom Festival began in 1912 as a celebration of friendship when Japan gave the city of Washington 3,000 cherry trees as a gift. Today it has become an annual two week city wide event that showcases over 150 different cultural events and 90 other hot happenings such as festivals, sporting events, and arts and crafts.
More that 700,000 people visit the area each year to admire the beauty and elegance of the cherry blossoms, which announce the coming of spring with their vibrant colorful displays. The National Cherry Blossom Festival encompasses a wide range of events, below are a just few highlights of this exciting and unique event where for two weeks, there is always something to do.
Family Day and Opening Ceremony
- Family day will be held at the National Building Museum on Saturday, March 25th from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm, this family friendly festival is free and is designed to celebrate both Japanese Culture as well as springtime in Washington.
- With many programs, events, and displays combined with fun hands-on activities, children will enjoy learning about many aspects of Japanese culture.
- Children will receive hands on instructions in traditional origami and design elements of Japanese gardens.
- Other activities and demonstrations include Japanese anime showings, kimono and hopi try-ons, Japanese vegetable and fruit carving, Japanese carpentry tools, bonsai displays, traditional Japanese flower arrangements, and so much more.
- Entertainment featuring both Japanese culture and talent from the Washington area will be showcased on stage. Family day will conclude with an exciting fashion show!
- The Opening Ceremony will take place following the Family Day festivities from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm. It is also free to the public and includes welcoming remarks by many Washington dignitaries, introductions of National Cherry Blossom Festival Goodwill Ambassadors, and a special performance from internationally renowned taiko drummer Kenny Endo.
Smithsonian Kite Festival - March 25
- The 40th anniversary of the Smithsonian Kite Festival will be held March 25th from 10 am to 4 pm on the grounds of the Washington Monument. Awards are given in competitions that range from design, performance and many more including most patriotic and funniest. Also featured are hands-on activities such as kite making, kite flying, and the history of kites. You can also enjoy kite demonstrations by kite experts as well as unique kite exhibitions.
Parade of the National Cherry Blossom Festival - April 8
- On April 8th, beginning at 10:00 am the Parade will begin marching down Constitution Avenue between 7th and 17th Streets, NW.
- The Grand Marshal this year will be television personality and host of Wheel of Fortune, Pat Sajak. The Parade will also feature performances by American Idol season 4 top 4 finalist Anthony Fedorov, and Grammy nominated recording artist Martha Wash who is the powerhouse voice behind many hits including the cult classic "It's Raining Men".
- In addition to the celebrity sightings and performances, the Parade boast many other sights and sounds. Cherry Blossom Queens from all over the United States and Japan will add a royal flare to the Parade.
- There are also a wide variety of spectacular marching bands that provide musical entertainment, as well as the National Cherry Blossom Dance Team and Choir who will treat you to exciting vocal and musical performances. The art of Taiko Drumming will also be featured at the Parade with dance and drumming teams from Japan and the United States.
- There will also be clowns, animals, antique cars, balloons, floats, and of course lots of fun for the entire family!
Other Events and Activities During the Festival
- Sakura Matsuri - Japanese Street Festival
- Grand Sushi and Sake Tasting
- Charity Golf Tournament
- Cherry Blossom Festival Rugby Tournament
- Cherry Blossom Photo Safari
- National Cherry Blossom Festival Fireworks Show
- Lantern Lighting Ceremony
- Art Exhibitions
- Kimono Exhibition
- Tidal Basin Stage Cultural Performances
- Concerts at Union Station
- Cherry Blossom Soccer Tournament
- Fourth Annual Japanese Anime Marathon
- And much more.........
The National Cherry Blossom Festival started very small and simple and celebrates the friendship of two countries. It has grown significantly and still maintains and honors that friendship with a variety of events and activities featuring Japanese culture. The Festival also celebrates the beauty and fun of springtime in the Washington, DC area.
