D.C. Cherry Blossom Events 2010

National Cherry Blossom Festival
(March 27- April 11, 2010)
Possibly one of the most beautiful festivals in D.C., the National Cherry Blossom Festival is covered with the blossoming of thousands of cherry trees on the Tidal Basin. This annual tradition, which started with gift of 600 trees to the United States from Japan in 1912, features parades, fireworks, concerts, cultural events, a kite festival and more.

Silver Spring Big Cherry Block Party
(April 3, 2010, 11a.m.- 6p.m.; Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring, Maryland)
The Silver Spring Big Cherry Block Party event is the first official Maryland celebration of the long-time National Cherry Blossom Festival celebration in Washington, D.C. The festival includes the best in Japanese art, dance, fashion, flowers, music, cultural performances, art exhibits and more. The Silver Spring Big Cherry Block Party is a new tradition and partner with the National Cherry Blossom Festival which hopes to continue as an annual tradition.

Parade of the National Cherry Blossom Festival
(April 10, 2010; 10a.m.)
The Parade of the National Cherry Blossom Festival is a huge spectator event each year which opens the Cherry Blossom season in Washington, D.C. Bring out the entire family to see the procession of giant floats, balloons, clowns, horses, musical and celebrity performances and more. This year’s entertainment line-up features American Idol finalist Justin Gaurini, R&B vocalist Deborah Cox and 2010 Miss America Carissa Cameron.

Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival
(April 10, 2010, 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; 12th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue NW, stretching East to West on Pennsylvania Avenue NW)
The Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival is a free event happening after The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C. The event is one of the largest Japanese street parties of the year and features numerous stage performances, drinks and cuisine provided by Asian and Japanese restaurants, cultural exhibits, and vendor booths which cover a span of six blocks.