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The National Cherry Blossom Festival honors the 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Tokyo’s Mayor Yukio Ozaki to Washington, DC—a lasting symbol of friendship between the United States and Japan. This beloved annual celebration transforms the Nation’s Capital with four weeks of breathtaking blooms, cultural events, and unforgettable experiences. The festival this year is from Friday, March 20 - Sunday, April 12, 2026. Parking is limited in the District, especially during the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Take the Metrorail, via the Silver Line, from Washington Dulles International Airport station. Adjacent to Parking Garage 1. [All images are sourced from the National Cherry Blossom Festival] Check out all the ways to celebrate: Hide related content Off Editorial Section(s) Dulles International Airport Travel Information Pink Tie Party: Friday, March 13, 2026 Pink Tie Party is back for its third year! Dress in your best pink and floral attire and indulge in curated food and cocktails from top DC-area restaurants, music, and experiences. When: Friday, March 13, 2026 Time: 7 - 11 PM Where: Union Station, 50 Massachusetts Ave NE Washington DC 20002 Get your tickets today! Attendees must be age 21+ Learn More BloomFest at the Tidal Basin: March 20 - April 12, 2026 Witness peak bloom at the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC, while also experiencing entertainment representing Japanese, American, and other cultures! Over 100 live performances, get ready to experience a variety of genres: Americana, Bluegrass, Country, Jazz, Pop, R&B, and Rock. When: Friday, March 20, 2026 Time: Welcome Area is open 10 AM – 5 PM, Mondays – Thursdays, and 10 AM – 6 PM, Fridays – Sundays. Performances are featured on the ANA stage beginning at 12pm daily, rain or shine. Where: 16 E Basin DR SW Washington 20242 This is a FREE event. Opening Ceremony: Saturday, March 21, 2026 The Festival’s signature Opening Ceremony is an artistic celebration of the 1912 gift of trees from Tokyo to Washington, DC, and an annual tribute to the longstanding friendship between Japan and the United States. This unique, one-time-only performance will feature special performances from acclaimed artists with ties to both countries. Expect traditional sword dances by Futago Onikenbai; pop music by award-winning singer Ayaka Hirahara, and modern dance choreographed by Takehiro Ueyama. When: Saturday, March 21, 2026 Time: 5:00PM - 6:30 PM Where: DAR Constitution Hall, 1776 D St NW Washington 20006 Tickets required. Learn More Blossom Kite Festival: Saturday, March 28, 2026 The Blossom Kite Festival is one of the most vibrant and unique celebrations on the National Mall, with family-friendly kitemaking activities, musical performances, competitions and more. When: Saturday, March 28, 2026 Time: 10 AM - 4 PM Where: Washington Monument Grounds, 130 17th St NW Washington DC 20006 This is a FREE event. Petalpalooza®- Saturday, April 4, 2026 This day-long all-ages spring street party brings art, music, and play to multiple outdoor stages, interactive art installations, a cashless beverage garden, family-friendly hands-on activities, roaming entertainers, and more, all along the banks of the Anacostia River. The evening is capped by fireworks show starting at 8:30 PM. This event is FREE and fun for all ages. When: Saturday, April 4, 2026 Time: 1 PM - 9 PM Where: Capitol Riverfront Navy Yard Metro, West entrance at Half St. SE, DC National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade®: Saturday, April 11, 2026 Attend the iconic springtime parade - including colorful helium balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands from across the country, celebrity entertainers, and performers. When: Saturday, April 11, 2026 Time: 11 AM - 1:30 PM Where: 16th St NW & Constitution Ave NW Washington DC 20004 This event requires tickets. Learn More Banner image National Cherry Blossom Festival 2026 Header Subtitle March 20 - April 12, 2026 | Washington DC