As the winter chill recedes and spring emerges, there's no better time to experience Washington, D.C.'s iconic cherry blossom season. Bursting with color and rich history, the capital's cherry blossoms are a must-see for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike from March 20 to April 16, 2023.
Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall is conveniently located right across the Potomac River in the Washington area and is also home to IHG® Army Hotels Wainwright Hall, a Historia Collection™ hotel. Your family can explore the beauty of the cherry blossoms and participate in the numerous events and activities the city has to offer while staying on post at one of our many properties.
Explore the Capital During Cherry Blossom Season
Cherry blossom season in Washington has a fascinating history that began over a century ago, reflecting the strong cultural and diplomatic ties between the United States and Japan.
The story of cherry blossoms in the U.S. capital started in 1912 when the city of Tokyo gifted 3,000 cherry trees to Washington as a symbol of friendship. The first two trees were planted on the north bank of the Tidal Basin by the First Lady Helen Taft and the wife of the Japanese ambassador. Over the years, more trees were added, and today, the Tidal Basin is adorned with around 3,700 cherry trees.
The first National Cherry Blossom Festival was held in 1927, organized by a group of civic-minded individuals who wanted to celebrate the beauty of the blossoms and promote tourism in the city. The festival, which was initially a three-day event, has grown over the years into a multi-week celebration featuring events, performances, and activities for visitors to enjoy.
Since then, more trees were planted on the grounds of the Washington Monument, further expanding the city's cherry blossom landscape. Today, the National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the largest and most popular annual events in Washington, attracting over 1.5 million visitors each year.
The festival has become an integral part of the cultural fabric of the city, bringing people together to celebrate and appreciate the breathtaking beauty of these delicate blossoms.
National Cherry Blossom Festival
Every year, the timeframe changes based on when the cherry blossoms reach their peak bloom. This year, the festival takes place from March 20th through April 16th. The National Park Service provides updates on the peak bloom predictions so you can plan your visit accordingly. There are many events you can enjoy at this year’s festival. Here are a few highlights:
National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade
April 15th: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade features a spectacular procession of colorful floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, and various cultural and community groups. The parade route runs along Constitution Avenue, between 7th and 17th Streets NW.
Visitors can choose between standing along the parade route for free or reserving grandstand seating for an enhanced viewing experience.
Petalpalooza Fireworks
April 8th: 1 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Petalpalooza is a dazzling display of pyrotechnics that takes place along the Capitol Riverfront at the Yards Navy Yard Metro but is also visible from Anacostia Park. This exciting event is the perfect way to cap off a day of festivities.
In addition to the fireworks display, the festival offers a range of activities for the whole family, including:
- Live music performances on multiple stages
- Food vendors
- Interactive art installations
- Kids' activity zones with face painting, crafts, and games
Japanese Street Festival - Sakura Matsuri
April 15th & April 16th
Saturday: 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. | Sunday: 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Experience the largest Japanese cultural celebration in the United States at the Sakura Matsuri - Japanese Street Festival. Immerse yourself in over 24-hours of captivating performances spanning four stages, featuring J-Pop, traditional Japanese music, and martial arts demonstrations. Explore a diverse array of cultural exhibits showcasing both traditional and contemporary Japanese items, along with delicious Japanese food and drink.
Tickets for the Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival are available at prices ranging from $12 to $20.
Pixelbloom: Timeless Butterflies at ARTECHOUSE D.C.
Runs Daily Through June 11th: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Pixelbloom is a great exhibit to see for art lovers. This cherry blossom season, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Pixelbloom: Timeless Butterflies at ARTECHOUSE DC. This mesmerizing digital art exhibit celebrates the start of spring and the annual cherry blossom season with a captivating display of ethereal butterflies, symbolizing the transformation from the cocoon of winter into the sunnier days of spring.
Now in its sixth year, the annual Cherry Blossom celebration at ARTECHOUSE expands on the world of Pixelbloom, inviting visitors to experience a thriving digital ecosystem where pixels come to life in a dynamic visual display. Inspired by the biology and ecosystem of butterflies, the exhibit features innovative digital art installations that merge the digital and physical worlds.
Created by ARTECHOUSE Studio, Pixelbloom reimagines the potential of a vibrant full spring bloom, blending digital and organic elements in an unforgettable expression of art and design.
Tickets for the exhibit range from $17 to $30 and can be purchased online through the official Cherry Blossom Festival website.
Tidal Basin
The Tidal Basin is the epicenter of the cherry blossom viewing experience. This picturesque area is surrounded by the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. Take a stroll around the basin or rent a paddleboat to get a unique perspective of the blossoms from the water.
You can reserve a paddle boat for your visit during Cherry Blossom season through the official Boating in DC website, partnered with the National Park Service.
Monuments and Memorials
While you're in the area, don't forget to visit the iconic monuments and memorials nearby. The Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial are all within walking distance. These historical landmarks are even more breathtaking when framed by the blossoms.
Smithsonian Museums
Just a short distance away, you'll find the Smithsonian Museums. These world-class institutions have free admission and are perfect for a family outing. The National Museum of American History, the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, and the newly opened National Museum of the United States Army are just a few of the popular options.
Our team members on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall are happy to help with anything you may need, so you can focus on creating lasting memories with your family. Make the most of your visit to the nation's capital this spring!
