The National Cherry Blossom Festival is the nation's greatest springtime celebration, held in Washington, DC. The Festival includes spectacular weekends and daily events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. Each year, the Festival commemorates the anniversary of the gift of the cherry blossom trees and the enduring friendship between the United States and Japan.
Start with a leisurely stroll around the National Mall's Tidal Basin to see the world-famous cherry blossoms. With more than 3,000 blossoms in bloom, springtime in DC is truly a sight worth seeing. Be sure to include a stop at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, which features more than 180 cherry blossom trees. The National Cherry Blossom Festival is about more than just the cherry trees though. The citywide festival creates a "City in Bloom" and features performances, exhibitions and entertainment across the city. For example, check out the free daily entertainment at the Tidal Basin Welcome Area and its ANA Performance Stage. From the first day of Spring for 4 weeks, the temporary stage features local, national and international performances, and Park Rangers will be on-hand to answer any questions.
Rent a paddle boat and glide along the Tidal Basin for a different view of the blossoms and many of the monuments and memorials. Then head to the Freer|Sackler Galleries, which showcase Asian culture through ancient artifacts, sculptures and paintings.
For dinner, make a reservation at The Source by Wolfgang Puck, featuring an Asian-inspired menu from the legendary chef.