If you haven’t been introduced to Washington, DC’s remarkable cherry blossom trees, then there’s no better time than this spring to see them. A beautifully aging gift from a historic exchange between the U.S. and Japan’s governments, the tree’s annual bloom has become the subject of one of our city’s most unique festivals.
For travelers who will be in town, don’t miss our special Capitol Hill in Bloom offer. And for your itinerary, here is the ultimate guide to the upcoming 2023 Washington, DC Cherry Blossom Festival — March 20th through April 16th.
The Opening Ceremony
Saturday, March 25th
Directly celebrating the 1912 arrival of the cherry blossom trees from Tokyo to here in DC, this annual Opening Ceremony celebration is co-presented with The Japan Foundation and will feature a wide range of musical acts. This year’s performers include Anna Sato and Toshiyuki Sasaki, Mika Stoltzman, and Petael.
Warner Theatre. Washington, DC
The Pink Tie Party
Thursday, March 16th
Guests will want to wear their finest pink attire to this unforgettable, singular, and uber-stylish event. The annual Pink Tie Party is a cocktail and dining extravaganza with some fashion thrown in. There will be eats from TCMA Executive Chef Houman Gohary as well as a variety of favorite bites from local restaurants, cocktails and mocktails. In addition to guests’ outfits, style will be on display with the Absolutely Dragulous runway show.
Ronald Reagan Building. Washington, DC
The Blossom Kite Festival
Sunday, March 26th
This event takes the party outside, which can make it a lot more fun for kids and young families. You can bring your own kite, buy one onsite, and even pick up a free kite kit that you can decorate with your little ones before flying kites with everyone else, the gorgeous National Mall surrounding. The day will also feature music at the Sakura Taiko Fest at Sylvan Theatre, and performances by the Wings Over Washington Kite Club.
Washington Monument Grounds. Washington, DC
The Parade
Saturday, April 15th
The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade is one of the sprawling celebration’s central events. Come out and enjoy massive floats, marching band performances, and even shows led by celebrity entertainers that include C+C Music Factory and Carson Kressley.
Constitution Ave NW, between 7th & 17th streets. Washington, DC
Petalpalooza and Bloom Watching
Saturday, April 8th
With all the festivities going on for the festival, you might be wondering how to go enjoy the trees themselves. While many of these events are within walking distance and nearby DC cherry blossom trees, you can also keep track of how they’re growing and where to see them with the National Cherry Blossom Festival’s Bloom Watch feature.
Book Our Capitol Hill in Bloom Special
Travelers coming to town for the festivities can stay a walk or bike ride away from all of the action here at Capitol Hill Hotel. Book this Capitol Hill in Bloom Special while it’s available, and treat yourself to an array of special perks.
Some of our favorite examples include:
– Special Cherry Blossom Welcome Amenity
– VIP Cherry Blossom Turndown
– Overnight parking or a $20 Uber credit
– Use of onsite bicycles to attend festival events, and to explore the cherry blossoms
– Late check-out