Trust me waiting for these events is better than waiting for the ketchup on your nice hot French fries!
It is the time of year where both the natives to the Washington DC area and the tourist start to anticipate the blooming of the Cherry Blossoms around the Tidal Basin. This year the timing of the Cherry Blossom Festival coincides with another great local event the Smithsonian Kite Festival. Two great events at one time.
The Cherry Blossom Festival itself runs from Marc 29th to April 13th and the peak time for the blossoms is forecast to be from March 27th to April 3rd. The festival is an annual two week event that features daily cultural performances, arts and crafts and sporting events. This year is the 96th anniversary of the gift of the Cherry Blossom trees to the US from Japan. The blooming of the trees and the festival draw hundreds of thousands to the area every year and it is one of the most anticipated events in the area.
Parking is always an issue around the Tidal Basin so this year a new free shuttle service is going to be provided between Hains Point and the Tidal Basin. As a native of the area who is crazy enough to go and join the crowds I will tell you that this new shuttle service or the metro is the best way to take in the sights.
Cherry Blossom Festival
Transportation Options
Happening at the same time that the Cherry Blossoms will be in full bloom is the Smithsonian Annual Kite Festival on March 29th from 10am - 4 pm at the Washington Monument. Of course wind is a big factor for this event. Too much or too little and the kites can't fly. If Mother Nature cooperates you can see some fantastic kites and competitions. If you have little ones they can participate as well by making their own kite and entering in the competition. It is always fun to see the creative kites that the children make and watch their smiles as they get to fly a kite under the gaze of the Washington Monument.
So gear up for a great weekend in Washington DC. Wear your comfortable shoes, bring a bottle of water and don't forget the sunscreen. See the city at its finest with spring weather, breath taking Cherry Blossoms and high flying kites.
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Cindy, you've got the word right -- anticipation. Can't wait to go have a picnic near the Tidal Basin under the beauty of the Cherry Blossoms this year.
We've been meaning to go for I don't know how long! This year, we'll try to hit it!
Brian-sounds like you have the right idea. Grab your space early. You know how crowded it is going to be!
Natalie- my daughter is coming all the way from the UK so make the drive down I-66 and enjoy!
Cindy, the kite flying is just beautiful! The cherry blossoms get all the press, but the kites make the trip really worth it!
I might be coming up for a friend's birthday the last weekend of the month, perhaps I should head to the Tidal Basin as well and catch the blossoms.
Cindy - this is one of the best times of year up in DC!!!!!!!!!!!!!