Editor’s Note: Due to the spread of the coronavrius, certain National Cherry Blossom Festival events have been canceled or postponed. This article has been updated to reflect those changes.
It’s about that time of year again when flowers begin blooming around the region, including pink cherry blossoms. Here, find details on the National Cherry Blossom Festival’s signature events, as well as cherry blossom events taking place in Northern Virginia.
National Cherry Blossom Festival Signature Events
Pink Tie Party
TBD: The Pink Tie Party has been postponed due to coronavirus; a new date will be announced soon.
Dress in your best pink attire and head to this stylish kickoff party, featuring small bites and cocktails from local restaurants, an open bar, entertainment by White Out Tokyo and a silent auction. Guests must be 21 years of age or older to attend. // Ronald Reagan Building & International Trade Center: 1300 Pennsylvania Ave., Washington, DC; $225
Opening Ceremony
Saturday, March 21, 5-6:30 p.m.
In partnership with The Japan Foundation, the opening ceremony event will include world-renowned performers from around the globe, helping to celebrate the anniversary of the gift of cherry blossom trees from Japan to the U.S. This year’s performers include Anna Sato X Toshiyuki Sasaki, White Out Tokyo and Naotaro Moriyama. Note: This event will not take place as originally planned at the Warner Theatre. The Festival is currently looking at options, including live streaming the event. // Location TBA; free
National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade
Saturday, April 4, 10 a.m.-noon
Kick off spring with this annual parade, a tradition set against the backdrop of DC landmarks along Constitution Avenue. Featuring colorful balloons, floats, marching bands and celebrity entertainers, the parade can be viewed from the National Archives to the Washington Monument. The event is rain or shine and attendees are encouraged to get there early for the best views. // From Seventh to 17th Street Northwest; $20 for grandstand seating, free standing along parade route
Petalpalooza
Saturday, April 11, 1-9 p.m.
Spend a Saturday afternoon at this day-long celebration. There will be art, music and games along the Capitol Riverfront. There will be multiple outdoor stages, interactive art installations, a beer garden, family-friendly activities and more, all followed by a fireworks show to end the evening. // The Yards: 355 Water St. SE, Washington, DC; free
Northern Virginia Events
Cherry Blossom Jubilee
Saturday, March 28, noon-5 p.m.
Join the Torpedo Factory for hands-on activities and performances as you peruse works of art inspired by the season. You can also create blossom-themed art with the help of artists from the center. // Torpedo Factory Arts Center: 105 N. Union St., Alexandria; free
Art Blooms at Mosaic District
Saturday, April 4, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Featuring live music, craft vendors, a farmers market, a beer garden, artwork and more, this event will be held throughout Fairfax’s Mosaic District. // Strawberry Park: 2910 District Ave., Fairfax; free
Tour of the Bonsai Pavilion and Bonsai Care Demonstration
Sunday, April 5, 1-4 p.m.
Learn about the ancient art of bonsai from members of the Northern Virginia Bonsai Society, all with beautiful cherry blossoms blooming around you. There will also be live music under the trees. // Meadowlark Botanical Gardens: 9750 Meadowlark Gardens Court, Vienna; $6
Cherry Blossom Art Walk
Saturday, April 11, 6-9 p.m.
Head to this art bonanza at Workhouse Arts Center during extended hours to view local artists’ work celebrating the blooms. You’ll also enjoy a specialty cocktail as you stroll around the campus, which is surrounded by cherry blossom trees. // Workhouse Arts Center: 9518 Workhouse Road, Lorton; free
For a list of all cherry blossom events being held in partnership with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, click here.
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