Though the cherry blossoms tend to peak in March, the excitement doesn’t have to stop there. We’ve compiled a list of the best cherry-blossom and Japanese-themed activities and events to keep the party going this April.
Official Japanese Stone Lantern Lighting Ceremony
April 3, 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Presented by the National Park Service and the National Conference of State Societies, this ceremony will present both traditional and modern Japanese culture, and showcase the relationship between Japan and the United States. Visitors will listen to remarks by top U.S. officials and Japanese diplomats, while also getting the chance to listen to traditional Japanese music performed by the Toho Koto Society of Washington DC and the Washington DC Choral Society. Independence Ave. & 17th St., SW, Washington, DC; free admission
Art Blooms at Mosaic
April 2 & 3, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
To welcome spring, the Mosaic District is putting on a festival filled with music, art, and other activities for the whole family. For just two days, the district will transform into an outdoor festival, complete with live entertainment, featuring the Vienna Singing Princesses, a kids’ games corner, over 90 art vendors, a farmers market, and more. Live performances like Groovalicious and Hit Parade will hit the big stage at 3 p.m. on each day of the festival. 2910 District Ave., Fairfax; free admission
The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade
April 9, 10 a.m. to noon
Running for 10 blocks along the iconic Constitution Avenue Northwest, this beloved parade features elaborate balloons and floats, along with entertainers and marching bands from across the country! Enjoy celebrity performances from acts like Taylor Dayne and Freddie Jackson while relishing in the beauty of the pink blossoms. Colorful balloons of characters like Peppa Pig and Clifford are sure to excite the whole family! From Seventh to 17th St. NW, Washington DC; $25 for grandstand seating, free standing along parade route
Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival
April 9, 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; April 10, 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The Japan-America Society of Washington, DC presents this festival celebrating Japanese culture among the cherry blossoms. Taking place over two days for the first time ever, the festival features an array of Japanese traditions, put on by performers, artists, and restaurants from around the globe. Highlights include the Beyond Tokyo Pavilion and the Ginza Marketplace, along with a beer garden, sake tasting, and over 20 Japanese food vendors. From Third to Seventh St. NW, Washington, DC; $10 for single-day ticket, $15 for two-day ticket
Cherry Blossom Jubilee
April 10, noon to 3 p.m.
Want to venture outside of DC for even more cherry blossom-themed excitement? Head to Alexandria to enjoy an afternoon of Japanese-themed art at the Torpedo Factory Art Center. The event begins at noon with a live performance by taiko drum group Nen Daiko on the waterfront. Then, head inside the arts center to view an exhibition of cherry blossom-inspired works by local artists. 105 N. Union St., Alexandria; free admission
Petalpalooza
April 16, 1 to 9 p.m.
This annual celebration combines music, art, and family-friendly fun into one day-long celebration of all things cherry blossom. Enjoy outdoor stages with live music, interactive art installations, and fun activities, all along the backdrop of the Anacostia River. Want to be dazzled? Top the night off by sticking around for a 15-minute musical pink fireworks show at 8:30 p.m. 355 Water St. SE, Washington, DC; free admission
Pink Tie Dinner Party
April 28, 6:30 to 10:30 p.m.
If glamor is more your style this cherry blossom season, look no further than the Pink Tie Dinner Party. Don your best pink outfit and head to the Ronald Reagan Building, where you will enjoy a sake and sushi cocktail reception and a dinner of incredible cuisine, crafted by TCMA executive chef Houman Gohary. Then, head to the after party for dancing, music, and a luxurious silent auction. 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC; $250 per person
Feature image courtesy National Cherry Blossom Festival
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