National Cherry Blossom Festival
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The (March 20 – April 12, 2026) is a citywide celebration that commemorates the 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry blossom trees to 365Թϲ, DC by the mayor of Tokyo. The Festival features , as well as a chance to see the starring attraction during peak bloom. Signature events include the Opening Ceremony co-presented with the Japan Foundation, the Blossom Kite Festival presented by Amazon, the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade® presented by Events DC, ʱٲ貹Ǵdz® and the Tidal Basin Welcome Area & ANA Stage hosted with the National Park Service.
Local restaurants even get into the spirit with the program, while DC-area hotels offer blossom-themed packages, deals and discounts.
The peak bloom of the cherry blossoms began on March 26 according to the National Park Service. The days leading up to peak bloom and even a week or so afterward still offer great viewing.
Check the National Park Service's for more information. You can also visit the and see a .
Read below for marquee events for 2026 and explore other tips for experiencing the magic of cherry blossoms in DC: things to know, how and where to find them, a full Festival rundown and more.
National Cherry Blossom Festival
At the , held in iconic Union Station, guests will be whisked away to an unforgettable world of DC’s cherry blossoms. Presented by Union Station 365Թϲ D.C. and Design Cuisine, with support from ANA, All Nippon Airways, the 2026 Pink Tie Party invites you to celebrate "The Art of Fashion". Attendees can step into the creative process and engage with the inspiration, designers and craftsmanship that bring fashion collections to life. Exclusive fashion and beauty items, one-of-a-kind DC packages, luxury hotels, top restaurants, travel experiences, wine and spirits will be featured in the Benefit Auction – all in support of the National Cherry Blossom Festival’s mission. Food, fashion, and fun will intertwine for a memorable and joyful evening. Guests flaunt their best pink and floral attire as they walk through themed halls and enjoy carefully curated food and cocktails from local DC-area restaurants.
7-11 p.m. |
National Cherry Blossom Festival
The National Cherry Blossom Festival's Opening Ceremony co-presented with the Japan Foundation, celebrate the 114th anniversary of the gift of trees with an exciting tribute to the longstanding relationship between Japan and the United States. The spectacle at DAR Constitution Hall 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 . The event will also be livestreamed on the Festival's YouTube channel.
5-6:30 p.m. |
Head to the 365Թϲ Monument grounds for this 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.
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. |
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. will take place at the Navy Yard and along the Anacostia riverfront. The closest Metro is the Navy Yard station and the event is free for all ages to attend. Be sure to stay for the official National Cherry Blossom Festival fireworks show (begins at 8:30 p.m.).
1-9 p.m. |
Witness DC's grandest petal procession with the presented by Events DC. Catch everything from giant helium balloons to elaborate floats to live musical performances. Enjoy prime performance viewing in the grandstand (), or stand along the parade route – which runs for 10 blocks along Constitution Avenue NW – for free.
11 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
The Sakura Matsuri, produced by the Japan-America Society of 365Թϲ 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.