Celebrate the arrival of spring in Washington, D.C. with exciting festivals and events. From the National Cherry Blossom Festival to beer and wine tastings, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Check out our list of springtime festivities in the nation's capital.
Celebrate Spring in Washington, D.C. with Festivals and Events
( Credit to: Washingtonian )
Spring has arrived, and it's time to embrace the season of cherry blossoms, food and drink events, and family-friendly fun. There are plenty of exciting festivals and activities happening in and around Washington, D.C. to celebrate the arrival of spring.
( Credit to: Washingtonian )
Kicking off the season is the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which runs from March 20 to April 14. The festival begins with a sold-out opening ceremony at Warner Theatre, featuring captivating Japanese cultural performances and a collaborative dance with the Washington Ballet Company. Throughout the festival, there will be various pink-themed events to celebrate the beautiful cherry blossoms, including the Blossom Kite Festival, Sakura Matsuri–Japanese Street Festival, Petalpalooza, and the grand finale parade along Constitution Avenue, which is free for all to enjoy.
Embrace the Cherry Blossoms at the National Cherry Blossom Festival
Kicking off the spring season in Washington, D.C. is the highly anticipated National Cherry Blossom Festival. From March 20 to April 14, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of cherry blossoms and enjoy a variety of pink-themed events. The festival begins with a sold-out opening ceremony at Warner Theatre, featuring captivating Japanese cultural performances and a collaborative dance with the Washington Ballet Company.
Throughout the festival, there are numerous events to celebrate the cherry blossoms, including the Blossom Kite Festival, Sakura Matsuri–Japanese Street Festival, Petalpalooza, and the grand finale parade along Constitution Avenue. These events offer a range of activities for all ages, from kite flying to cultural performances and delicious food. The grand finale parade is a must-see, as it showcases vibrant floats and performances along one of D.C.'s most iconic streets.
Bloomaroo at The Wharf: A Cherry Blossom-Inspired Celebration
If you're looking for more springtime festivities, head to The Wharf on March 23 for Bloomaroo. This cherry blossom-inspired event offers something for everyone, with matcha tea sampling, a haiku creation station, kids' crafts, and live performances of go-go, jazz, and rock music. The evening will conclude with a spectacular pink fireworks display along the waterfront.
Pink in the Park: Arlington's Three-Weekend Celebration
Arlington's Met Park will host Pink in the Park from March 23 to April 13. This three-weekend event features pink-themed art activations, live music, family-friendly activities, and more. Art of Pink celebrates local artists, makers, and small business owners with a pop-up market and live mural painting. Families can also enjoy a splash party at Pink in the Pool and an outdoor music festival called Pink Beats.
Sakura Sunday at National Harbor: A Taste of Japanese Culture
National Harbor's Sakura Sunday, held on March 24, is another highlight of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. This event brings a taste of Japanese culture to the Maryland waterfront, with a pop-up market, art, music, dance performances, culinary treats, and more. Guests can participate in zen yoga, watch a Japanese sword training class, witness a live sushi demonstration, enjoy a K-pop performance, and indulge in tea offerings under the Capital Canopy marketplace.
Raise a Glass at the DC Beer Fest
For beer enthusiasts, the DC Beer Fest on April 13 at Nationals Park is a must-attend event. With general admission tickets, you can sample a wide selection of seasonal spring beers and craft brews from over 80 different breweries. The festival also features live music, a dueling piano bar, and a food truck alley. VIP tickets offer additional perks, such as access to the warning track and dugouts at Nationals Park and commemorative goodies to take home.
Toast to Spring at the DC Wine Fest
Wine lovers can raise a glass at the DC Wine Fest on April 13 at Union Market. This spring edition of the festival offers a variety of wines from various vendors, as well as goods from coffee and candle exhibitors. You can also enjoy seafood and bakery items while listening to live music performances.
Indulge in Chocolate at the DC Chocolate Festival
Indulge your sweet tooth at the DC Chocolate Festival on April 27 at the Embassy of France. This annual event showcases fine chocolates from the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond. Attendees can sample chocolates, participate in guided workshops to learn how to make chocolate, and listen to chocolatiers discuss their craft.
Passport DC: A Month-Long Celebration of International Cultures
Throughout the month of May, Passport DC takes place at multiple locations. This month-long event celebrates International Cultural Awareness Month by highlighting the rich traditions of diplomacy in Washington. One of the highlights is the Around the World Embassy tour on May 4, where participants can visit 39 participating embassies to experience art, culture, food, and fashion from around the globe. Additionally, there's the EU open house tour and the Fiesta Asia! fair, which offers outdoor crafts, performances, and street food.
Enjoy Family Fun at the Lincoln Strawberry Festival
Loudoun County hosts the Lincoln Strawberry Festival from May 17 to May 19. This festival aims to raise scholarship funds for local high school students. It features a range of family-friendly activities, live music, a toddler fashion show, and contests such as strawberry pie and ice cream eating contests.
End Spring with the District Beer Fest
Concluding the spring festivities is the District Beer Fest on May 18 at Union Market's Dock 5. This one-day beverage festival showcases beers from favorite local breweries, including DC Brau, Aslin Beer Co., and Atlas Brew Works. Attendees can also enjoy bites from local eateries and live music throughout the day.
Embrace the Beauty of Spring in Washington, D.C.
Spring is a season of celebration and renewal, and these festivals and events offer the perfect opportunity to embrace the beauty of the season. Whether you're admiring the cherry blossoms, sipping on craft brews, indulging in chocolates, or exploring different cultures, there's something for everyone to enjoy in and around Washington, D.C. this spring.