National Cherry Blossom Festival Roundup

Getting psyched up about the National Cherry Blossom Festival? Well, you should because a lot is in store! Celebrity entertainment, a Parade, luminary chefs and activities galore are bound to impress. Adding to recent information that we’ve provided are more details unveiled at a kick off press conference held at the Newseum (555 Pennsylvania Avenue) on Monday, March 4. Drum roll, please!

The Opening Ceremony taking place on Saturday, March 23, at the Warner Theatre (513 13th Street) will feature American pop star Andy Grammer, jazz pianist Chihiro Yamanaka, and violinist Nanae Iwata, among others. Free online registration is required in advance. Back after a two-year hiatus is the Taste of Japan, a scrumptious affair happening on Thursday, April 4, at Carnegie Library (801 K Street). The city’s finest Japanese restaurants will help celebrate the gift of cherry blossom trees to DC from Japan from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. But hurry, this event is only open to the first 350 people who purchase tickets. Tickets are $100 per person; $150 per person for an exclusive preview hour starting at 6 p.m. Proceeds will go to the Festival, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

Come rain or shine, the popular National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade® will enliven Constitution Avenue on Saturday, April 13, from 10 a.m. to noon. Bring your camera. Grammy Award-winning artist Mya and Elliott Yamin of American Idol fame will be joined by the University of Maryland’s GYMKANA, seen on America’s Got Talent; the Washington Wizards Girls; DC Rollergirls; eight marching bands from across the country; the Youth Choir and All-Star Tap Team, and much more. Although free along the Parade route, prime grandstand seating is available for $20 through Ticketmaster or by calling 800-745-3000.

To plan your Festival experience in advance and in real time, a free festival app is available for the iPhone and Android. Enjoy! For more information, including volunteer opportunities, visit the Festival website.