Cherry Blossom Guide: Everything you need to know about DC's iconic spring festival

What started as a simple tree-planting ceremony at the Tidal Basin has blossomed into one of the biggest annual celebrations in the country.

Spring is just around the corner, and with it comes a wave of cherry blossoms! As Washington, DC transforms into a sea of pink and white, the National Cherry Blossom Festival brings millions of visitors from near and far to the nation’s capital to see the spring blooms. With that in mind, we put together a quick guide to help you navigate (and celebrate) DC's iconic festival.

Can’t make it to the festival in person this year? Don’t worry—you can still bring those festive spring vibes into your home with our Cherry Blossom Collection!

A Little History Behind the Blossoms

DC’s famous cherry blossoms were a gift from Japan. Back in 1912, Japan presented Washington, DC, with 3,000 cherry trees as a symbol of friendship between the two nations. What started as a simple tree-planting ceremony at the Tidal Basin has since blossomed into one of the biggest annual celebrations of cherry blossoms in the country.

Mark Your Calendar: Cherry Blossom Festival 2025 Dates & Events

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is a huge, month-long celebration filled with family-friendly events, parades, and cultural performances. If you’re planning to experience the cherry blossoms in person, here’s what you need to know:

The festival takes place from March 20 – April 13, 2025. And there are a few events worth checking out while you’re in town:

Blossom Kite Festival: March 29, 2025 – Fly your own kite or watch professionals show off their skills at the Washington Monument grounds.

Petalpalooza: April 5, 2025 – A fun-filled day of live music, activities, and a stunning fireworks display along the waterfront.

National Cherry Blossom Parade: April 12, 2025 – A vibrant spectacle of giant balloons, floats, and performers marching down Constitution Avenue.

Planning Your Trip for Peak Bloom

Timing your visit just right can make all the difference. The best time to see the cherry blossom is peak bloom. According to the National Park Service, the cherry blossoms will reach peak bloom between March 28th to March 31st.

The Best Spots to See the Blooms

For the best views of the cherry blossom trees, be sure to check out these three National Park Service locations:

Tidal Basin: The most popular cherry blossom destination, with iconic views of the Jefferson Memorial framed by pink blooms.

National Mall & Memorial Parks: If you’re up for a scenic stroll among historic landmarks, use the Washington Monument as your guide to walk along the national mall and Memorial Parks to see the blossoms in full bloom.

Hains Point & East Potomac Park: This option is a quieter, less crowded option for enjoying the blossoms with family or friends. 

Can’t Make It? Bring the Cherry Blossom Vibes Home

If a trip to DC isn’t in the cards this month, you can still celebrate the season from the comfort of your home! Thanks to the Bloomcam people anywhere in the world can keep an eye on the blossoms at the Tidal Basin from the roof of the Salamander, Washington, D.C., courtesy of EarthCam.

And if you're looking to capture the joy and beauty of cherry blossom season all year round, be sure to check out our Cherry Blossom goodies. From compostable sponge cloths to cute fridge mini magnets, The Neighborgoods has many ways you can bring some of that cherry blossom magic to your space.

The Neighborgoods Cherry Blossom Collection features your everyday kitchen essentials like towels and sponge cloths—perfect for adding a touch of spring to your kitchen or gifting to a fellow blossom lover.

Whether you’re strolling under the cherry blossoms in DC or bringing their beauty into your home with The Neighborgoods cherry blossom themed gifts, we hope you take a moment to fully embrace the magic of cherry blossom season.

Cheers! 

Naomi Venerable 

Carry a touch of cherry blossom magic wherever you go with the Blossom Tote—perfect for everyday life, travel, or a scenic stroll under the blossoms!