Discover spring in DC: Cherry blossoms, Festivals & new attractions

Friday, March 1, 2024

Destination DC, the nation’s capital’s premier marketing entity, extends its expertise for a visit to the iconic cherry blossoms, showcasing enticing offers and innovative ways to embrace spring’s splendor in a city that wholeheartedly welcomes the season. Start planning a memorable and affordable journey at washington.org/spring.

“When the cherry blossoms are blooming, there isn’t a more special place to be than Washington, DC,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO, DDC. “From the views at the Tidal Basin and beyond, to petal-themed experiences at hotels and acclaimed restaurants, it feels like the entire city blooms this time of year, too.”

The National Park Service has recently declared the peak bloom period to be March 23-26. Optimal viewing of the cherry blossoms typically extends a few days before and after the onset of peak bloom, with the flowers potentially lasting up to two weeks under perfect conditions. This spring marks the 70th anniversary of the Tidal Basin’s Japanese Lantern in Washington, DC, a testament to the friendship between Japan and the United States, originally carved in present-day Tokyo in 1651 and illuminated annually to inaugurate the festival.

Washington, DC’s culinary scene remains vibrant with contributions from celebrated restaurateurs. New establishments include Pastis by Stephen Starr and Keith McNally, Moon Rabbit by Kevin Tien, Pascual by the Popal Family alongside chefs Matt Conroy and Isabel Coss, and a new downtown branch of the local favorite, 2Fifty Texas BBQ.

The city welcomes new hotels like the luxurious Royal Sonesta Washington, DC – Capitol Hill and the reimagined Westin Washington, DC Downtown, with a focus on wellness. Notable attractions include the International Spy Museum’s “Bond in Motion” exhibit showcasing James Bond’s famous vehicles (through April 2025), a new portrait of Oprah at the National Portrait Gallery (through Oct. 20, 2024), and the National Building Museum’s landmark exhibition, “Building Stories,” which delves into how children’s literature influences perceptions of architecture and design.

March is an eventful month for sports in the capital. The 2024 ACC Men’s Basketball Tournament kicks off on March 12 at the Capital One Arena, while the CAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Championships are set for the Entertainment & Sports Arena (March 8-12 and 13-17). The Wizards and Capitals gear up for the final phase of their seasons, Audi Field gears up for DC United’s and the Spirit’s home openers on March 16 and March 23, respectively, and the Nationals’ home opener at Nationals Park is on April 1.

Official National Cherry Blossom Festival Activities include the Pink Tie Party on March 15, the festival itself from March 20-April 14, featuring events like the Tidal Basin Welcome Area & ANA Stage during peak bloom, Art in Bloom, the Opening Ceremony, the Blossom Kite Festival, Petalpalooza, and the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade. More information can be found here.

Embark on a Blossom-Inspired Trip with various experiences such as “Isekai: Blooming Parallel Worlds” at ARTECHOUSE, Bloomaroo at The Wharf, and Japanese Culture Day at the Library of Congress. Numerous hotels offer cherry blossom-themed packages, including exclusive dining experiences, photography sessions, and unique amenities, ranging from the luxurious Conrad Washington, DC to the innovative YOTEL Washington, DC.

Explore Blossom-Inspired Food and Drinks with the National Cherry Blossom Festival’s Cherry Picks Program and the Spring Wine Fling, among other offerings. Enjoy cherry blossom-themed afternoon teas and special menus at select venues.

Travel Tips highlight common and alternative viewing sites for the blossoms, including the Tidal Basin, National Mall, and beyond. Various modes of experiencing the blossoms are suggested, from water cruises to bike tours.

Upcoming Events and Enhancements include the Salamander Washington, DC hotel updates, Filmfest DC, Passport DC, Capital Pride, the reopening of the Folger Shakespeare Library, and the Smithsonian Folklife Festival celebrating the National Museum of the American Indian’s 20th anniversary.

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• Capital Hilton unveils exclusive Cherry Blossom package and suite