The National Cherry Blossom Festival is celebrating its 100th Anniversary, so don’t miss out on the celebration! Here are a few of the events that are worth venturing downtown for.
The festival kicks off with the 2012 Pink Tie Party. It will feature top chefs, as well as the “Auction Spectacular” with offers from sporting, concert and dining experiences to weekend getaways. Tickets for the gala are $200. Who: Hosted by chefs Jose Andres and Roy Yamaguchi
What: 2012 Pink Tie Party
When: March 20 at 7 PM
Where: The Mayflower® Renaissance Washington, DC Hotel
The Opening Ceremony to celebrate the 100th year of the Cherry Blossom Festival will feature local and national entertainers and speakers. The event is free, but be sure to get your tickets in advance!
What: National Cherry Blossom Festival® Opening Ceremony
When: March 25, 5-6:30 PM (doors open at 3:30 PM)
Where: Walter E. Washington Convention Center
It’s not every day you get to see hundreds of kites soaring over the monuments. Bring your own kite to fly, or watch the Rokkaku Kite Battle. Check out the day’s schedule before you go!
What: Blossom Kite Festival
When: March 31; 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Where: Washington Monument grounds – Constitution Avenue & 17th Street, NW
This year’s Fireworks Festival will feature live music, cherry-inspired food and drinks, a new “Very Cherry Marketplace.” Visit all day, or just go for the fireworks at the end of the night.
What: Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival
When: April 7; 2-9 PM
Where: Southwest Waterfront – 600-900 Water Street, SW
Looking for something with a little more romance? Enjoy a starlit gala cruise on the Potomac with a three-course dinner, open bar, and live bands. Tickets cost $150 per person.
What: Gala Dinner Cruise aboard the Odyssey
When: April 12; boarding at 6 PM, boat sails from 7-10 PM
Where: Gangplank Marina – 6th & Water streets, SW
Cost: $150/Person; purchase tickets to the Gala Dinner Cruise here
One of the most looked forward to events, the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade®, will take place on April 14th. See beautiful floats, balloons, marching bands, and performers make their way down Constitution Avenue.
What: National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade®
When: April 14; 10 AM – 12:30 PM
Where: Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th streets, NW
Cost: FREE along parade route, $20/person for Grandstand Seating
Can’t get enough of the annual event? Visit the full National Cherry Blossom Festival event schedule here.