Every spring, Washington DC transforms into a breathtaking canvas of pink and white blossoms, drawing visitors from around the globe. The 2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival, running from March 20 to April 13, is set to be a remarkable celebration of nature, culture, and local flavors. This guide serves as your complete resource for all things cherry blossom—from must-see events and top dining spots to relaxation retreats and hidden gems.
A Storied Past and a Blossoming Future – Japan’s Friendship
The cherry trees that brighten our nation’s capital were gifted by Tokyo in 1912 as a symbol of international friendship. Since 1934, this annual spring event has evolved into a vibrant three-week celebration, capturing the fleeting beauty of nature’s delicate blooms. While the National Park Service anticipates peak bloom between March 28 and March 31, local meteorologist for DC News Now Janessa Webb notes that the blossoms might start appearing as early as March 20. This extended window ensures that more visitors have a chance to enjoy the spectacle of Washington DC in full bloom.
DC Cherry Blossom Festival Events and Key Moments
The festival offers a wide range of events that let you fully immerse yourself in the spirit of spring. The celebrations begin with an Opening Ceremony on Saturday, March 22, 2025, from 5:00 to 6:30 pm, featuring cultural performances that set the stage for the season. Families will appreciate the Kite Festival on March 29, where the area near the Tidal Basin transforms into a lively venue for kite flying and outdoor fun from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Later on April 5, the community comes together at PetalPalooza for an evening of live music, food vendors, and interactive activities running from 1:00 to 9:00 pm. The festivities conclude with a Parade on April 12 from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm, showcasing vibrant floats and musical bands along DC’s historic streets. The newly situated Tidal Basin Welcome Area—now by the MLK Memorial on West Basin Drive—is open daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, featuring a performance stage, information booths, and various food options to enhance your festival experience.
Food and Drink Offerings with a Cherry Blossom Twist
Experience DC’s cherry blossom dining with festival specials at top venues. At Quadrant in The Ritz-Carlton, enjoy “Cherry Blossom Tea Time” with “Fleur de Geisha” green tea and French pastries by Chef Mile Montezuma. Immigrant Food at Ballston, Planet Word offers specials from March 19–April 20, including Chef Ben Murray’s Sakura Sour and Cherry Blossom Tres Leches. JINYA serves a Sakura Spring cocktail with Roku gin, yuzu, cherry syrup, hibiscus tea, while Paraíso offers it paired with a Shaved Brussel Sprout Salad. Calico transforms its backyard into a cherry blossom greenhouse (March 20–April 13), featuring the Sakura Spritz, Dati Martini, and Tart Cherry sour beer and cider. Park Hyatt’s Tea Cellar will serve weekend tableside tea starting March 22. SABABA and Little Blackbird serve a Cherry Blossom Sundae with cocktails like Tokyo Red and Melon Spring Elixir. Ambar (Capitol Hill, Clarendon, Shaw) offers a Cherried & Spiced cocktail and a Hot Chocolate Brownie. Fairmont Washington, D.C. hosts Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea, and Bar Japonais launches a 15-course omakase on March 6 featuring seasonal dishes.
DMV Spa and Relaxation: Embracing the Calm of Spring
After a day filled with festival activities, treat yourself to rejuvenating sessions at The Spa & Salon at MGM National Harbor. Their exclusive Cherry Blossom Specials include a 50-minute massage or facial that helps relax your body and refresh your mind, ensuring you are ready for another exciting day.
Beyond the DC Blossoms: Unique Spring Experiences
Enhance your spring trip by taking part in additional events around the city. At Ciel, located at 601 K Street NW, a seasonal pop-up transforms the rooftop into a space adorned with cherry blossoms, curated by local design experts. Enjoy inventive cocktails like the Lychee Martini and Japanese Black Manhattan while taking in sweeping views of the city. Meanwhile, the City in Bloom event at The Plaza in Tysons Corner Center on March 30 offers a day of live chalk art, face painting, and interactive experiences that capture the spirit of the cherry blossoms.
DC Blossoms by Foot, Wheel, or Paddle
From March through October, immerse yourself in a truly American experience as you explore DC’s historic landmarks and scenic waterways. Start your day with an early morning jog around the Tidal Basin or rent a bike or scooter to take in the sights at your own pace. On the water, City Cruises offers the only round-trip cruises to Mount Vernon—George Washington’s home—departing directly from Washington, DC, with admission and three hours to explore the estate and gardens. For a touch of luxury, Nautiste provides private yacht charters that let you sail in style along the Potomac. Alternatively, enjoy a ride on the Tiki Barge at The Wharf or a cruise with Whitlow’s on Water—perfect for birthday parties, corporate outings, or simply a fun day out—with unique options like paddle boats, retro boats, and more. If you prefer land-based sightseeing, hop-on hop-off bus tours, such as those offered by Big Bus (an authorized National Park Service concessioner), bring you close to iconic landmarks including The White House, MLK Memorial, and the US Capitol. No matter which way you choose to explore, you’re sure to experience the city’s top sights and vibrant atmosphere.
DC Cherry Blossom Accommodations and Practical Tips
For those planning a longer stay, The Morrow Hotel, an official festival partner, features a unique cherry blossom suite complete with special amenities like Petite Plume pajamas and an “Adopt a Tree” package that supports local conservation efforts. Keep in mind that spring weather in DC can be unpredictable. Although forecasts point to peak bloom between March 28 and March 31, be sure to check NPS Bloom Watch for any updates. With certain streets, such as West Basin Drive, possibly closed for events, using public transportation or a bike is advisable. For the best photos, consider visiting early in the morning or during the golden hour when the blossoms glow in natural light.
Washington DC’s Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 is a heartfelt gathering of art, culture, and community. Embrace the beauty, savor the seasonal flavors, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and join us as Washington DC bursts into a brilliant celebration of spring!
