National Cherry Blossom Festival

Hundreds of thousands of city residents and visitors from across the globe make it a point to visit the city at this time to witness the spectacular blooming of the cherry trees around the Jefferson Memorial, marking the beginning of spring.
The famous trees(originally 3000), a gift from Japan in 1912 symbolising friendship between the two countries, create an explosion of color surrounding the Tidal Basin in a sea of pink and white. There is a Japanese lantern lighting ceremony, a parade, music and a pageant. A Japanese Street Festival after the parade exhibits the traditions, arts and food of Japan.  The trees are lit up at night.

Venue: Tidal Basin
Date: 28 March to 12 April 2009; Parade 4 April
Website: www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org