One of the premier events each year in the nation’s capital, the National Cherry Blossom Festival is always a welcomed diversion from politics. What started in 1912 with a gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Japan to Washington, D.C. is now one of the world’s greatest celebrations of spring.
To be held this year from March 20 to April 16, signature events include Petalpalooza, a day-long all-ages celebration on April 8 that brings art, music and play to multiple outdoor stages, interactive art installations through the Petalpalooza Art Walk, a cashless beverage garden, hands-on activities, roaming DC sports mascots and entertainers all along the banks of the Anacostia River. The evening is capped by the dazzling choreographed Official National Cherry Blossom Festival Fireworks Show at Capitol Riverfront at the Yards Navy Yard Metro.
The Nation’s Springtime Parade is returning to Constitution Avenue on Saturday, April 15. Grand colorful helium balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands from across the country, celebrity entertainers and performers burst down the Parade route in a spectacle of music and showmanship celebrating spring. Portions of the Parade (Constitution Ave between 9th & 15th Streets) are free to the public along the route and are first-come, first-serve.
These hotels are rolling out the red carpet for visitors during the National Cherry Blossom Festival with special packages along with themed beverages and dining options.
The Jefferson DC is offering guests the opportunity to enjoy the fresh spring breeze and prime views of the blossoms set apart from the masses, via private luxury boat tour. With its newly launched Blossoms by Boat package, guests will enjoy a two-night stay at the boutique, luxury haven in the heart of Washington DC, a cherry blossom-inspired picnic created by Executive Chef Fabio Salvatore and an hour and half private tour courtesy of EmbarkDC.
Blossoms by Boat includes all of the Cherry Blossom essentials:
- A 1.5-hour EmbarkDC private boat tour on the Potomac River for up-close views of the blossoms
- Picnic for two with Jefferson bag and blanket
- Two cherry blossom cocktails in Quill
- In Full Bloom ($23) – Wheatley Vodka, Sayuri Nigori Sake, Lichi-Li, Grapefruit
- Cherry Blossoms ($23) – Filibuster Dual Cask Gin, Elderflower, Cherry Saffron Bitters, Lemon
- Overnight accommodations
Dovetail at Viceroy DC is offering both a cherry themed cocktail menu and food menu. Guests can enjoy themed cocktails such as: the Sakura G&T with pink peppercorn infused Roku Gin; the Japanese Paloma; Hanamizake with sake, Singani 63, Italicus bergamot liquor, berry blossom white tea, lemon and rose float; or the Umami Manhattan with shitake infused Toki Whiskey. Stand-out dishes include Zarusoba with a cherry blossom tare, Matcha Tiramisu with a cherry sauce and Cherry Gelato paired with a pistachio cake.
“Suiten” your springtime getaway for cherry blossom season with Hotel Zena’s special package which includes: overnight accommodations in their Gia Suite; three-course Cherry Blossom dinner for two served in-room; and a bottle of Japanese whiskey. Guests and locals can also opt to create their own experience a la carte with Figleaf’s Blossom Celebration three-course meal. For $49/person patrons can enjoy menu items including watercress salad with cherry tulle, Togarashi Seared Duck Breast and Cherry Blossom Jubilee with sweet saki-cherry sauce. Guests can also enjoy a Japanese whiskey flight for $44 per person.
The iconic Watergate Hotel is offering various stay packages for guests and locals wanting a change of scenery this season. With three rooms packages, a specialty cocktail and Cherry themed afternoon tea, the hotel has something for everyone. “Pedal & Picnic” Experience the blooms with a pedal and picnic experience. Pedal through DC on the Watergate Hotel bicycles and enjoy a Veuve Clicquot themed picnic with a curated charcuterie and a bottle of Veuve Clicquot champagne. Weekend stays include Afternoon Tea for two. Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea is a contemporary twist on traditional afternoon tea. Start off with a glass of bubbly topped with cotton candy and enjoy afternoon tea in the Kingbird backroom area with views overlooking the Potomac River. Imported Sakura Kyoto Cherry Blossom tea is added.