Washington, D.C.’s iconic National Cherry Blossom Festival returns to the city on April 16 and we’ve got all the information you need to fully enjoy the experience.

Every year in April, visitors from all over the world flock to Our Nation’s Capital for one of the most celebrated springtime events in the country. The Cherry Blossom Festival has taken place in D.C. for over 100 years.

2016 will continue this prized tradition.

What is the Cherry Blossom Festival?

The Cherry Blossom Festival began over 100 years ago in 1912. The Festival was conceived following Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo’s gift of 3,000 cherry blossom trees to the city of Washington, D.C. The Festival served as a reminder of the strong relationship between the two countries, and has transformed throughout the decades into a celebration of culture and civic diversity in Our Nation’s Capital.

What Events Take Place During the Festival?

The Cherry Blossom Festival is much more than a one-day event; it spans several different weekends in the month of April, with activities and attractions to suit all members of your family.

  • On Saturday, April 9, head to the Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival, presented by Harris Teeter. The festival will include live music and entertainment for families, plus a gorgeous fireworks display, set to begin at 8:30 pm.
  • The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade is set to take place on Saturday, April 16 at 10 AM. This event will feature beautiful floats, giant balloons, celebrities, marching bands, and more.
  • The Sakura Matsuri-Japanese Street Festival will take place on April 16 from 10:30 AM to 6 PM. This is the largest one-day celebration of Japanese culture throughout the United States, and will feature art displays by culture groups, live music, performance art, food trucks, art vendors and more.
  • Events DC Presents Cherry Blast will take place on April 16 from 6 PM to 2 AM. This event will feature all things Japanese, including anime, cosplay and gaming. You can learn about Japanese fashion trends, enter contests, and take part in sushi workshops.

Need Transportation During the Festivities?

The Cherry Blossom Festival brings thousands of people in from out of town, making the city even more crowded than it already is.

If you need quick, easy and comfortable transportation during your festival experience, don’t opt for ridesharing services that you can’t depend on. Don’t opt for cabs that aren’t guaranteed to show up when you need them.

Chauffeured car service from reputable companies like AE Sedans can ensure your safe arrival to all of the Festival’s biggest events. You won’t have to battle the congestion or struggle to find parking; AE Sedans will take care of everything for you.

Contact us to book your Cherry Blossom Festival transportation!

Photo Credit: Geoff Livingston