What Makes It Guide-Worthy: Every spring since 1912, the nation’s capital is blanketed in a wash of shades of pink that draws crowds around the world. The National Cherry Blossom Festival is held during the first few weeks of spring, when D.C.’s more than 18,000 cherry trees awaken in a joyful bloom. These trees were a gift of 3,020 saplings from the People of Japan to the People of the United States in 1912, a gesture that continues to symbolize renewal, fresh starts and hope.
When to Book: The Cherry Blossom Festival is essentially free and open to the public. Some events, like the Opening Ceremony, offer free tickets that must be reserved in advance. Start planning your travels at least six months in advance for the best rates and walkable access to the festival. The exact timing of peak blooms shifts each year depending on weather conditions. Look for accommodations that offer flexible reservations, such as free cancellations, to allow for shifting your timing once peak bloom dates are announced. The peak bloom announcement typically comes in early March, noting when at least 70% of the Yoshino cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin will be in bloom.
Must-See & Do: The cherry blossom blooms mark the end of the winter months, as the fragrant breeze in the air reawakens D.C. Here are the top things to see and do during this celebration of spring.
The Tidal Basin: The origins of the festival date back to a gesture of friendship and diplomacy from Japan, when most of the 3,020 gifted cherry trees were planted along the Tidal Basin. Bordered by the National Mall, Jefferson Memorial and Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, the Tidal Basin remains the hub and main attraction of the Cherry Blossom Festival, with many of the original trees still blooming today. Join the crowds for a meditative two-mile walk along the perimeter of the basin, admiring the pink petal-dusted skies.
The Nation’s Springtime Parade: The Nation’s Springtime Parade is the grand finale of the Cherry Blossom Festival. This free, family-friendly spectacle is DC’s version of the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, swapping snowflakes for cherry blossoms. Marvel as large helium balloons float high above the streets, cherry blossom-themed floats burst with spring colors and high school marching bands from across the country add some heart-pounding brass to the mix. The parade usually begins at 10 a.m. and runs along Constitution Avenue NW from 7th Street to 17th Street. Arrive by 9 a.m. to claim a good viewing spot.
Petalpalooza: Enjoy DC at its most joyful and creative during the Cherry Blossom Festival’s Petalpalooza. This day-long outdoor celebration turns the Capitol Riverfront into a colorful fairground filled with music, art and activities for all ages. The evening ends with a dazzling fireworks display on the banks of the Anacostia River.
Where to Stay: The D.C. metro area is easy to navigate, especially with its comprehensive subway and bus transit system. Here are three top hotels to stay at when visiting for the big fest.
Premier: The Hay-Adams, Independent: Directly across from The White House, The Hay-Adams has a remarkable history of hosting dignitaries, celebrities and presidents since its opening in 1928. This is an ideal location near many of the city’s major monuments and political sights and a quick two-mile drive to the Tidal Basin.
Mid-Range: Park Hyatt Washington D.C., Hyatt: Sleek and luxurious, the Park Hyatt Washington D.C. is an excellent home base for the cherry blossom festivities. You’ll delight in the quiet and walkable West End neighborhood, a 10-minute drive to the Tidal Basin. Foodies will especially love the hotel’s Blue Duck Tavern, renowned for its seasonal, locally sourced farm-to-table menu (the duck breast here is a must!).
Budget-Friendly: Hampton Inn Washington, D.C./White House, Hilton: Just down the street from The White House, the Hampton Inn Washington, D.C./White House offers a comfortable and convenient stay right in the heart of downtown D.C. The hotel features top amenities, including a free hot breakfast daily, an indoor pool and round-the-clock free coffee and tea in the lobby.
SideQuest: For cherry blossoms in more serene settings, head to the National Arboretum. You’ll escape the crowds and delight in its 446 acres, famous for cherry blossoms, bonsai collection and Capitol Columns. Admission is free, and the views are stunning year-round.
