Coronavirus fears and precautions are sweeping the globe, the nation and the entire DMV region. As more cases are confirmed, event organizers across the region are cancelling and postponing events, including the National Cherry Blossom Festival.
The festival announced on March 11, that four of its signature events have been postponed or canceled through Tuesday, March 31. The festival will determine what changes need to be made for its April events at a later date.
“It is a difficult decision and one that we do not take lightly,” said Diana Mayhew, president and CEO of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, in a press release. “The health and safety of the performers, guests, volunteers and festival staff is our priority. We have been working closely with the city government, WHO and CDC, as well as our partners, to determine the best course of action. As such, the team is continually assessing the situation and looking at ways to reimagine certain events, such as the Opening Ceremony.”
Here are the events affected, below.
- The Pink Tie Party, originally set for March 20, is postponed. The festival is looking at future dates to reschedule. The silent auction fundraiser will still take place online.
- The Opening Ceremony, set for March 21, will not take place at the Warner Theatre. The festival is looking at options, including live streaming the event.
- The Blossom Kite Festival on March 28 has been canceled.
- The Tidal Basin Welcome Area is canceled.
- The 2020 National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade is canceled.
- Petalpalooza is canceled.
- Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival is postponed.
- The Anacostia River Festival is postponed until Sunday, Aug. 9.
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