Washington, DC, is famous for its beautiful cherry blossom season, typically between late March and early April. This stunning natural display is celebrated with various events, drinks, and meals inspired by delicate pink and white flowers. Here are some of the top cherry blossom-themed activities in Washington, DC:
National Cherry Blossom Festival: This annual festival is the highlight of the cherry blossom season in DC, featuring a wide range of events and activities, including parades, 5K & 10K run/walks, cultural performances, and more.
Cherry Blossom-themed Cocktails: Many bars and restaurants in DC create unique cherry blossom-themed cocktails during the season, incorporating ingredients such as cherry liqueur, cherry blossoms, and more. Check out Silver Lyan, Zaytinya, NEW! Certo! (Casual Italian) at Royal Sonesta Washington DC Dupont Circle, Opaline, and Ciel Social Club – Order the Murasaki Imo with El Silencio Mezcal, El Dorado 8, housemade ube milk, pandan, pineapple, Angostura.
Sakura Matsuri: This Japanese street festival is a popular part of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, featuring traditional Japanese music, dance, and food.
Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea – Several DC hotels offer cherry blossom-themed afternoon tea services during the season, featuring delicate pastries, sandwiches, and cherry blossom tea. Check out Willard Hotel, Fairmont Hotel, Hay Adams, St. Regis, Salamander, and Waldorf Astoria.
Cherry Blossom Brunch: Many DC restaurants offer special brunch menus during the cherry blossom season, often featuring Japanese-inspired dishes such as sushi and tempura. Check out Boqueira, Ambar, The Darcy Hotel’s Gerrard Street Kitchen, Uncaged Mimosas, Fat Fish Rolls & Twists (Wharf) Bento Box – Remember to grab the pink sakura rice!
Free Cherry Blossom Macarons and Cherry Blossom Art and Floral Display Sunday, March 26th 11 – 4 or while supplies last – 500 free cherry blossom macarons (one per visitor, vegan macarons also available) Cherry blossom mural by DC muralist Chris Pyrate. Cherry Blossom floral display by Brightly Ever After. 1,000 origami cranes by Olivia Macaron’s Kitchen Fairies Olivia Macaron 3270 M Street. NW.
PIXELBLOOM: Timeless Butterflies invites you to step into a virtual world of cherry blossoms, discovering the ephemeral beauty of butterflies and the thrilling exuberance of nature.
Pink in the Park – (Free April 1) Virginia’s Premier National Cherry Blossom Festival Event. Celebrate the arrival of cherry blossom season with an unforgettable concert hosted by Orlando Jones, featuring musical guests Crush Funk Brass, DJ Chan DonFootwerk, Reesa Renee, Umami House, and headliner Black Alley, along with a beer & wine garden, food trucks, and giveaways!
Overall, the cherry blossom season in Washington, DC, is a beautiful and exciting time, offering a range of cultural and culinary experiences inspired by this stunning natural display.