District of Columbia Commissioners
Event Origin
The District of Columbia organized a cherry blossom celebration in 1934 and formalized it as an annual event in 1935 to celebrate the 1912 Japanese tree gift and U.S.–Japan friendship.
Introduction
Brace yourself for the enchanting beauty of spring at the National Cherry Blossom Festival on March 20th! This beautiful day emerged from a gift of approximately 3,000 cherry blossom trees from the city of Tokyo to Washington D.C. nearly a century ago, as a symbol of friendship and peace. Each year since then, the blossoming of these strikingly beautiful trees has marked the arrival of spring and been celebrated with joyous festivities. These celebrations include singing, dancing, and a myriad of events that reflect the culture and spirit of both nations. This day is a time for us all to revel in the breathtaking beauty of nature in its full bloom and immerse ourselves in a magnificent spectacle of pink and white petals. Hurry up, let the season of renewal begin!
National Cherry Blossom Festival Timeline
How to Celebrate National Cherry Blossom Festival
1
Attend the parade and street festival
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the festival by attending the annual parade and street festival. Enjoy the sight of floats adorned with cherry blossoms, traditional Japanese performances, and local culinary treats.
2
Participate in a photography contest
Capture the beautiful cherry blossoms in bloom and submit your pictures to a photography contest. This can be a fun and creative way to engage with the festival and the beauty of spring.
3
Host a cherry blossom viewing party
If you can't make it to the festival itself, bring the festival home to you. Host a cherry-blossom viewing party in your own backyard. Decorate with pink and white flowers, serve traditional Japanese treats, and celebrate the arrival of spring with friends and family.
4
Take a guided walking tour
Join a guided tour around your town or city, particularly ones that have cherry blossoms. You’ll not only enjoy the beauty of these trees but also learn about their history, significance, and care.
5
Craft your own blossom arrangements
Collect fallen cherry blossom branches and arrange them into beautiful floral decorations for your home. It could be a fun activity that allows you to bring a part of the festival inside your house.
Why We Love National Cherry Blossom Festival
Celebration of Spring
National Cherry Blossom Festival marks the start of spring, a time for renewals, vibrant colors, and warm weather. It's a wonderful opportunity to say goodbye to winter and cheerfully welcome the new season with blossoms all around.
Cultural Exchange
The festival is a commemoration of the friendship between Japan and the United States. It offers an engaging platform for attendees to appreciate traditional Japanese performances, arts, and food, enhancing cross-cultural understanding and exchange.
Provides Fun Activities
From attending parades and street festivals to participating in photography contests, guided walking tours, and crafting blossom arrangements, the National Cherry Blossom Festival offers fun-filled activities for everyone to enjoy and immerse themselves in the spirit of the season.
Holiday Dates
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