As the chill of winter fades, Washington, DC, blossoms into a spectacle of colour and life. Springtime in the US capital is a period of renewal, where the city's famed cherry blossoms take centre stage, framing the historic monuments and the serene Tidal Basin in soft pink hues. This enchanting season draws visitors from all over the world who are looking to explore, learn, and marvel at everything this multifaceted destination has to offer, including experiencing its unmissable Cherry Blossom Festival.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival invites both locals and visitors to celebrate all that spring in Washington, DC has to offer, from exciting events and art installations to special treats in participating restaurants. The Opening Ceremony, co-presented with the Japan Foundation, is an artistic celebration of the 1912 gift of trees from Tokyo to Washington, DC, with special performances from acclaimed artists with ties to both countries.
Among the signature events is the entertainment representing Japanese, American, and other cultures at the Tidal Basin Welcome Area & Performance Stage, hosted by the National Park Service. Here, live performances among the blossoms celebrate the longstanding friendship between the US and Japan with a dynamic cross-cultural mix. Expect Americana, bluegrass, country, jazz, pop, R&B, and rock, plus dance styles and performances, including Japanese, Eastern European, Colombian, Indian, flamenco, tap and clogging, and Zumba.
Then there’s the Blossom Kite Festival at the Washington Monument Grounds, with activities, music, competitions, and performances for kite enthusiasts, beginners, families, and friends.
Meanwhile, Petalpalooza is a day-long, all-ages celebration bringing art, music, and play to outdoor stages, as well as offering interactive art installations, a drinks garden, hands-on family activities, roaming entertainers, and more along the banks of the Anacostia River, culminating in a choreographed fireworks display set to music.
There's also the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade – a riot of colourful helium balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands from across the country, celebrity entertainers, and performers bursting down the route in a spectacle of music and showmanship – plus a ticketed Pink Tie Party. And throughout all this are the cherry blossom-inspired flavours, tours, specials, and events laid on by city businesses. In terms of food, this includes French macarons, themed afternoon teas, and one-off cocktails.
As to the best place for getting great shots of the cherry blossom, try the Jefferson Memorial steps, with the Tidal Basin in the foreground and the Washington Monument in the distance. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial on the banks of the Tidal Basin (or anywhere on the banks) is also a great spot where you can see the best of the blooms, and you can also see them from a two- or four-person paddleboat on the Basin. Other places to look out for include the Japanese Lantern, the U.S. National Arboretum, the Gardens of Dumbarton Oaks historic estate in Georgetown, the Hains Point Loop Trail, and the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Brookland neighbourhood.
Content created in partnership with Washington, DC & Brand USA
To book your trip to Washington, DC trip during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, call your Travel Counsellor today.
Winter sports enthusiasts, rejoice! Europe's stunning ski resorts offer more than just snow-capped peaks and thrilling runs. Whether you're a seasoned skier or just starting out, these popular ski destinations promise an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
One of the best things about late November and December is getting into the festive spirit, and we can’t think of a better way to embrace the season than shopping for unique Christmas gifts on a European city break, somewhere with a fabulous festive market. We’ve chosen our must-visit Europe Christmas markets for 2023, with some continuing into early January if you want to keep the festive feels going.
Finnish Lapland in winter offers something that’s hard to find elsewhere: long stretches of snow, quiet surroundings, and a pace of life that encourages people to slow down. It’s a place where the days can feel calm and steady, even when temperatures drop well below freezing. It’s a place where winter isn’t just a backdrop but part of everyday life, and here’s what you can expect when you experience it for yourself.
