2018 National Cherry Blossom Festival, DC

@CherryBlossFest

Affair: National Cherry Blossom Festival

When: Monday, March 20 - Sunday, April 15, 2018

Events

Thursday, March 15: Pink Tie Party

Saturday, March 24: Opening Ceremony at the Warner Theatre

Saturday, March 24 – Sunday, April 8: Tidal Basin Welcome & ANA Performance Stage

Saturday, March 24: SAAM Cherry Blossom Celebration by Smithsonian Museum

Saturday, March 31: Blossom Kite Festival on the Washington Monument grounds

Saturday, April 14: National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade® presented by Events DC

Sunday, April 15: Anacostia River Festival produced by the 11th Street Bridge Park

Hot Spot: Washington, DC

Deets: Each year, the National Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates spring in Washington, DC, the gift of the cherry blossom trees, and the enduring friendship between the people of the United States and Japan. The Festival produces and coordinates daily events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival, Mr. Kazutoshi Aikawa, Deputy Chief of Mission of The Embassy of Japan, sponsors, and stakeholders gathered on November 16, 2017 for a preview of the 2018 National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20-April 15). Speakers at the Launch, presented by Guest Services, Inc., announced new and expanded programming that will incorporate elements of art, music, and play.

The Festival also unveiled the 2018 official artwork, which was created by Maggie O’Neill. Maggie is a DC-based artist, designer, and creative entrepreneur best known for her pop impressionistic paintings of iconic Washington, DC landmarks and people. Read more about Maggie here and get a behind-the-studio look at how she created the piece. The one-of-a-kind artwork is an annual collector’s item, and is available for order today!

In addition, The Festival announced the inaugural Petalpalooza, a daylong all-ages celebration taking place at the newly developed District Wharf. The event, formerly known as the Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival, will feature larger-than-life elements including multiple music stages, interactive art installations, life-sized games, fireworks, and more.

The Pink Tie Party

The springtime affair in Washington, the Pink Tie Party stylishly marks the end of winter and the official beginning of blossom season. Attendees will be delighted and entertained by delicious food and beverage stations, unique entertainment, and the friendly competition of the silent auction. The Pink Tie Party is an event not to be missed as influencers and tastemakers from DC and our region’s professional, sports, social and media communities come together to celebrate the cherry blossoms as an iconic symbol of international friendship and springtime excitement. Proceeds benefit the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc. a registered 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting the beauty of nature and international friendship through year-round programs, events, and education initiatives that enhance our environment, showcase arts and culture, and build community spirit. Tickets are available now!

Hint For The Average Socialite: GRAB YOUR FREE OPENING CEREMONY TICKETS NOW! ($5 service fee per ticket; limit 4 per order)

For a schedule of events click here! Events are primarily free and open to the public. Ticketed events are included here!

Pink Tie Party tickets are available now!

Win the Ultimate Party Package!

Use the hashtag #PinkTieParty by February 15 and we’ll give you everything you need to get the party started!

Post on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram to be entered to win the following:

One Night Stay at the Willard InterContinental Washington, DC

High-end couture gown rental from Armarium

Luxury Custom Suit and Shirt from Knot Standard

Hair and Makeup from GlamSquad

Dinner for Two at Pennsylvania 6

Bottle of Whispering Angel Rosé

Bottle of Joseph Magnus Bourbon

Gourmet Cotton Candy from Fluffness