National Cherry Blossom Parade Canceled; Festival To Go On

WASHINGTON, DC — While the National Cherry Blossom Festival will return next spring to the Washington, D.C, one aspect has already been canceled due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

Event organizers announced Tuesday the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade has been canceled, although the festival is still scheduled to take place March 20-April 11, 2021.

"The health and safety of our Festival staff and the attendees, sponsors, and other stakeholders remain the Festival's top priority," said Diana Mayhew, festival president and CEO, in a press release. "While we know the community will miss the tradition of the Parade, a striking and celebratory procession down Constitution Avenue, plans to present the 2021 Festival innovative and fun ways are already underway."

Last spring, organizers were forced to cancel most of the annual festival's activities after D.C. Mayor Muriel Bower issued her coronavirus public health emergency, which prohibited mass gatherings in the District. Despite the mayor's order, many people continued to visit the Tidal Basin to view the cherry blossoms. In response, Bowser issued another order to close roads around the National Mall and restrict access to the Tidal Basin.

Even though the District is currently in the second phase of its phased reopening, the public health emergency is still in effect. Mass gatherings of more than 50 people are prohibited.

Festival organizers said in the press release they were working with the mayor's office, the National Park Service, and other stakeholders to provide a variety of programs to help welcome spring to the District.

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Watch DC's Cherry Blossoms Live Amid Coronavirus Cancellations