2019 DC National Cherry Blossom Festival: Events, Parking, Info

WASHINGTON, DC -- The cherry blossom trees in D.C. may be a few days from peak bloom, but the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival is already underway. Here's everything you need to know about the event.

The festival is a citywide celebration of the 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry blossom trees to D.C. from the mayor of Tokyo. Ever since then, the blooming of the cherry blossoms has served as the unofficial start to spring for the D.C. area, and that means it's a good excuse to get outside and enjoy the beautiful weather after the long, cold months of winter.

WHEN: The festival takes place from March 20 until April 14.

WHERE: All over D.C.

WHAT: The festival features numerous events celebrating the cherry blossoms, whether it be a Pink Tie Party fundraiser with cocktails and dancing, or The Opening Ceremony, a free event at the Warner Theatre that took place March 23. There are plenty more events to come, including the Blossom Kite Festival on the National Mall on March 30, the Blossom Bash at The Anthem on April 5 featuring Meaghan Trainor, and the 21st Annual Cherry Blossom Freedom Walk on April 6. A full list of events can be found here.

COST: It varies, depending on the event. Some are free, like the kite festival this Saturday, and others -- like the show at The Anthem -- will require tickets for entry.

PARKING: Once again, it varies depending on the event. But in most cases, you're better off taking public transportation like the Metro, or you can try taking an Uber or Lyft into the city (although don't be surprised if you run into heavy traffic, even on the weekend). The National Cherry Blossom Festival attracts lots of tourists from all around, so crowds will be thick and parking will be scarce.