Author: mcohen@ncbfdc.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Krysten Copeland
National Cherry Blossom Festival
202-630-3215
krysten@merakicommsgroup.com  

This Weekend’s Petalpalooza Will Bring Live Performances, Fireworks, and Engaging Art to Capitol Riverfront to Cap Off the 2022 National Cherry Blossom Festival

New This Year: Interactive Public Art Installation Adorning Capitol Riverfront Neighborhood Through April 17

Washington, D.C. [April 13, 2022] – The National Cherry Blossom Festival today announced that Petalpalooza, presented by Chase, will take over Washington, D.C.’s Capitol Riverfront neighborhood at The Yards this Saturday, April 16 from 1-9 p.m. The finale signature event of the 2022 National Cherry Blossom Festival, Petalpalooza will be free to the public and feature live music on three outdoor stages, interactive art installations, larger-than-life games and activities, a beverage garden, roving performers, spectacular fireworks, and much more.

“Petalpalooza is another way we’re bringing the 2022 Festival into neighborhoods for all to enjoy,” said Diana Mayhew, president and CEO of National Cherry Blossom Festival. “There will be so much to see and do at the event, and we encourage attendees to either pack a picnic or enjoy some of the great grab-and-go food options from local shops and restaurants like The Salt Line and Kilwins DC. Also, Metro or other public transportation will be the best ways to get there, since parking options may be limited.”

“Chase is so delighted to be the presenting partner of this wonderful event for the fourth year,” said Alfonso Guzman, regional director for Chase Mid-Atlantic. “Cherry blossoms season is a springtime tradition and when the flowers bloom each year, it signifies the beginning of spring and lights up the District. This year is even more meaningful as everyone has been enjoying the festivities in person.”

New this year as an extension of the Art in Bloom program, presented by Amazon and supported by Park West, the Petalpalooza Art Walk features public art installations throughout the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood. Art Walk is open now through April 17.

Crafted by local artists, these “Instagrammable” experiences are sure to create an incredible backdrop for lasting Festival memories, including a “Swing into Spring” experience presented by Chase. To learn more about the artists and their respective sculptures, click here.

Local businesses throughout the Capitol Riverfront community are also joining in the collective celebration of spring with sidewalk sales, grab-and-go food orders, Trapeze School performances, and fun activities like themed workouts, canoeing, and kayaking.

Petalpalooza attendees are invited to enjoy a full day of live music from local artists on three outdoor performance stages and dance floors. The Acoustic stage will feature Joe Downer, Wild Whispers, Like Water and the Fam, and Fordson Labs, who will perform alongside online sensation Andrew Savoia. The Chase Main Stage will feature JWX: The Jarreau Williams Xperience, Back to Yours, Jordy Searcy, and Juice. The Performance Stage, presented by Mars Arts DC in partnership with Washington Performing Arts, will combine the art of performance with education.

Presenting sponsor Chase will offer a cardholder’s lounge and fun photo opportunities for attendees. A Better Cities for Pets pet comfort station, provided by Mars Petcare, will help ensure that every four-legged family member has a fantastic Festival experience.

Fireworks will cap the evening at 8:30 p.m., when a dazzling, choreographed display of fireworks lights up the Anacostia River between the Frederick Douglass and 11th Street Bridges.

The Festival invites all participants to tag their Petalpalooza experiences on social media with the hashtags #Petalpalooza and #RediscoverSpring.

Petalpalooza is easily accessible by Metrobus, DC Circulator’s Blue Route, and Metro’s Green line to Navy Yard-Ballpark or Orange & Blue lines to Capitol South. The Capitol Riverfront also offers eight Capital Bikeshare stations. The fireworks display may be viewed from all locations throughout Petalpalooza as well as  across the river at Anacostia Park. In the event of inclement weather, Petalpalooza will be postponed until April 17 from 5–9 PM.

Petalpalooza is presented by Chase and hosted by Capitol Riverfront, with support by LaCroix Sparkling Water, Mars Petcare, Park West Gallery, Mars Arts DC in partnership with Washington Performing Arts, Brookfield Properties, WorldStrides, City Cruises, Dunkin’, Kirin, Beam Suntory, District Winery, DC Water and Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). Media partners include NBC4, OutFront Media, and iHeartMedia Radio.

For more information, please visit https://bit.ly/2022Petalpalooza.

For more information about the 2022 Festival, visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org/RediscoverSpring and follow the Festival’s social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

For the health and safety of all participants, the Festival encourages attendees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in alignment with CDC recommendations.

Please review event details on the Festival website to determine whether masking or proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required to attend. Please note that safety requirements may change, so attendees are encouraged to sign up for Festival emails to receive the latest updates.

ABOUT NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL  

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. Hosted from March 20 – April 17, the 2022 Festival will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming that promotes traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.  

Visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information, and check out Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest), and YouTube (@NationalCherryBlossomFestivalDC). The Festival is supported by Leadership Circle Sponsors Events DC and Amazon.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Krysten Copeland
National Cherry Blossom Festival
202-630-3215
krysten@merakicommsgroup.com  

Petalpalooza Art Walk Happening Now at Capitol Riverfront 

Cherry Blossoms Brought to Life Through Interactive Installations Through April 17

Washington, D.C. [April 12, 2022] – The National Cherry Blossom Festival today announced their Petalpalooza Art Walk installation showcasing 10 interactive “Instagrammable” installations from local and national artists is open to the public at the Capitol Riverfront now through April 17. Petalpalooza Art Walk is  part of  Art in Bloom  presented by Amazon, with support from Southfield, Michigan-based Park West Gallery

“These immersive art installations showcase a broad range of talent across the D.C. area and beyond,” said Diana Mayhew, president and CEO for National Cherry Blossom Festival. “There’s a gazebo inspired by the Festival’s 2022 Official artwork that looks gorgeous at night; a 12’x14’ sculptural dragonfly that pays homage to Japan’s moniker; a huge swing with a spring backdrop just waiting for fun social media posts, a new cherry blossom sculpture celebrating the 110 years of friendship between Japan and the U.S.; art from national artist Daniel Wall, creations from eight student talented artists from D.C. public schools; and more. We encourage residents of D.C. and visitors to the Capitol Riverfront to walk, bike, or scooter around to experience these thoughtful and creative pieces of art throughout this week and weekend.”

Petalpalooza Art Walk installations include:

1. Dragonfly Wishes – 12-foot long, 14-foot high sculptural dragonfly alluding to Japan’s moniker, created by artist Tracie Griffith Tso
2. Blossom Gazebo – Three-dimensional interpretation of the 2022 Official Artwork created by 2022 Official Artist Lea Craigie-Marshall
3. Refresh, Renew, Rebloom – Giant cherry blossom art sculpture celebrating the 110-year-old friendship between Japan and the U.S., sponsored by Embassy of Japan, and painted by Art Recovery Technology, home of Prism Specialties, artists Melissa Ragos, Maria Luz Roa, Natalie Cox, Gonzalo Rodriguez, and Darrah Wills
4. Student Art Showcase – Pieces focused on friendship and the theme, ”Home is Where the Blossoms Are,” from eight D.C. students in grades K-12, with support from DC Collaborative
5. Petalpalooza Art Maze: The Art of Daniel Wall – Fun, flowery maze designed to delight guests and decorated with works by Chinese-American artist Daniel Wall, brought to life by Park West Gallery
6. Swing Into Spring – Spring-inspired swing set for a fun photo opportunity, sponsored by Chase
7. The Art of Daniel Wall: Yards Park Bridge – “Beautiful Cherry Blossom” painting by Chinese-American artist Daniel Wall wraps around Yards Park Bridge, brought to life by Park West Gallery
8. Hana-Ikada – A “flower-raft” of fallen cherry blossom petals made of pink, white, and clear beach balls, created by artist Elizabeth Ashe
9. Blossoming Spring Wear – “Fashion collection” of five life-sized clothing ensembles resembling large-scale paper doll outfits, created by artist Wendy Sittner
10. Emergence: The Cherry Blossom Runway – Hand-painted immersive fine art installation that can be used as a fashion runway experience for visitors, created by artist Alex Moon

For a map of locations and details about each Petalpalooza Art Walk installation, visit https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/event/petalpalooza-art-walk/.

The Festival invites people to tag their Petalpalooza Art Walk experiences on social media with the hashtags #ArtinBloom and #RediscoverSpring.

Petalpalooza Art Walk is part of Petalpalooza, which is presented by Chase and happening on Saturday, April 16 from 1-9 p.m. Petalpalooza will take over D.C.’s Capitol Riverfront neighborhood at The Yards with FREE live music on three outdoor stages, the Art Walk, larger-than-life games and activities, a beer and wine garden, roving performers, spectacular fireworks, sidewalk sales and grab-and-go food from local businesses, Trapeze School of New York performances, themed workouts, canoeing, kayaking, and more. For more details about Petalpalooza, visit https://bit.ly/2022Petalpalooza

Petalpalooza Art Walk is being supported by Park West Gallery and Chase. Site hosts include Capitol Riverfront BID, Brookfield Properties, Dock 79, and Steadfast Supply.

For more information about the 2022 Festival, visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org/RediscoverSpring and follow the Festival’s social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

For the health and safety of all participants, the Festival encourages attendees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in alignment with CDC recommendations. Masking is strongly encouraged onsite where social distancing is not possible.

Please review event details to determine whether masking or proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required to attend a Festival-related event. Please note that safety requirements may change, so attendees are encouraged to sign up for Festival emails to receive the latest updates.

ABOUT NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL  

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. Hosted from March 20 – April 17, the 2022 Festival will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming that promotes traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.  

Visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information, and check out Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest), and YouTube (@NationalCherryBlossomFestivalDC). The Festival is supported by Leadership Circle Sponsors Events DC and Amazon.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Krysten Copeland
National Cherry Blossom Festival
202-630-3215
krysten@merakicommsgroup.com  

Petalpalooza Will Bring Live Performances, Fireworks, and Engaging Art to Capitol Riverfront

New This Year: Public Art Installation Adorning Capitol Riverfront Neighborhood Through April 17

Washington, D.C. [April 11, 2022] – On Saturday, April 16 from 1-9 p.m., Petalpalooza, presented by Chase, will take over D.C.’s Capitol Riverfront neighborhood at The Yards. The free event will feature live music on three outdoor stages, interactive art installations, larger-thanlife games and activities, a beer and wine garden, roving performers, a spectacular fireworks show, and much more. New this year as an extension of the Art in Bloom program, presented by Amazon and supported by Park West, the Petalpalooza Art Walk will feature public art installations throughout the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood beginning on April 1 — a full two weeks before Petapalooza kicks off on April 16. Crafted by local artists, these “Instagrammable” experiences are sure to create an incredible backdrop for lasting Festival memories, including a “Swing into Spring” experience presented by Chase. To learn more about the artists and their respective sculptures, click here. Local businesses throughout the Capitol Riverfront community are also joining in the collective celebration of spring with sidewalk sales, grab-and-go food orders, Trapeze School performances, and fun activities including themed workouts, canoeing, and kayaking. Petalpalooza attendees are invited to enjoy a full day of live music from local artists on three outdoor performance stages and dance floors. The Acoustic stage will feature Joe Downer, Wild Whispers, Like Water and the Fam and Fordson Labs who will perform alongside online sensation Andrew Savoia; the Chase Main Stage will feature JWX: The Jarreau Williams Xperience, Back to Yours, Jordy Searcy and Juice; and the Performance Stage, presented by Mars Arts DC in partnership with Washington Performing Arts, will combine the art of performance with education. Presenting sponsor Chase will offer a cardholder’s lounge and fun photo opportunities for attendees, and a Better Cities for Pets pet comfort station provided by Mars Petcare to help ensure that every four-legged family member has a fantastic Festival experience. Fireworks will cap the evening at 8:30 p.m., when a dazzling, choreographed display of fireworks lights up the Anacostia River between the Frederick Douglass and 11th Street Bridges. “Chase is so delighted to be the presenting partner of this wonderful event for the fourth year in a row,” says Alfonso Guzman, Chase Mid-Atlantic Regional Director. “Cherry Blossoms season is a springtime tradition and when the flowers bloom it lights up the District. This year is even more meaningful as everyone will be able to enjoy the festivities in person.” The Festival invites all participants to tag their Petalpalooza experiences on social media with the hashtags #Petalpalooza and #RediscoverSpring. Petalpalooza is easily accessible by Metrobus, DC Circulator’s Blue Route, and Metro’s Green line to Navy Yard-Ballpark or Orange & Blue lines to Capitol South. The Capitol Riverfront also offers eight Capital Bikeshare stations. The fireworks display may be viewed from all locations within the event. In the event of inclement weather, Petalpalooza will be postponed until April 17 from 5–9 PM. Petalpalooza is presented by Chase and hosted by Capitol Riverfront, with support by LaCroix Sparkling Water, Mars Petcare, Brookfield Properties, DC Water, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), City Cruises, Mars Arts DC in partnership with Washington Performing Arts, Park West Gallery, Dunkin’, and WorldStrides. Media partners include NBC4, OutFront Media, and iHeartMedia Radio. For the health and safety of all participants, the Festival encourages attendees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in alignment with CDC recommendations. Please note that masking may be required at Festival events in areas where social distancing is not possible. We recommend reviewing event details on the Festival website the day of the event to confirm any restrictions or safety precautions. Please note that requirements may change, so please sign up for the Festival newsletter to receive the latest updates. For more information, please visit https://bit.ly/2022Petalpalooza.

ABOUT NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL  

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. Hosted from March 20 – April 17, the 2022 Festival will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming that promotes traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.  

Visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information, and check out Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest), and YouTube (@NationalCherryBlossomFestivalDC). The Festival is supported by Leadership Circle Sponsors Events DC and Amazon.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Krysten Copeland
National Cherry Blossom Festival
202-630-3215
krysten@merakicommsgroup.com  

National Cherry Blossom Festival Selects Winners of Its ‘Petal Porches’ Competition, Presented by Amazon, Across DC, Maryland, and Virginia

Washington, D.C. [April 5, 2022] – The National Cherry Blossom Festival today announced the winners of its Petal Porches competition, presented by Amazon, for the 2022 National Cherry Blossom Festival. Petal Porches brought spring and community sprit to doorsteps in neighborhoods in Washington, D.C. and surrounding communities in Maryland and Virginia as porches, yards, windows, and balconies came alive through springtime décor.

“While people come from across the world to experience the blooms, it’s our local community that makes the celebration so special,” said Diana Mayhew, president and CEO, National Cherry Blossom Festival. “Petal Porches has been a memorable way for our neighbors from all eight wards of the city, to Arlington and beyond, to get involved with the Festival and celebrate spring beyond the Tidal Basin.”

The 1300 block of A Street NE in Capitol Hill won “Best Blossom Block” for Petal Porches.

“Prime Petal Porches” winners were selected by IGDC (Instagram Community of Washington, DC) team members Laurie Collins (@dccitygirl), Holly Garner (@golightly),and Austin Graff(@austinkgraff). They judged the finalists and selected winners based on criteria provided by the Festival. Winners will receive a prize ribbon and a custom watercolor rendering of their Petal Porches submission photo.

D.C.:

• Ward 1 – “Cherry Blossom Embassy – Let Peace Bloom”
• Ward 2 – “Minion in Pink”
• Ward 3 – “Pretty in Pink”
• Ward 4 – “Pink Petal Porch Party”
• Ward 5 – “We Flamingos Love Cherry Blossom Festival!”
• Ward 6 – “House of 1,000 Cranes”
• Ward 7 – “32nd Sweet Southeast”
• Ward 8 – “PinkPalace SomeBunny Guarding the Cherry Blossoms Red Carpet Entrance”

Virginia:

• Herndon – “Cherry Blossom at the Historic Herndon Halloween House”
• Arlington – “Pinktastic!”
• Alexandria – “Cherry Pink”

Maryland:

• Kensington – “Bloom Where You Are Planted- Cheery, Cherry Pink Passion for Kensington”
• Seat Pleasant – “Kon’nichiwa Sakura”
• Silver Spring – “Lanterns and Garlands”

The People’s Petal Porch winner – “Pink Petal Porch Party” in Ward 4 – was decided using a bracket-style poll on the Festival’s Instagram (@cherryblossfest). The winner of “Blossom Beltway Bragging Rights” – a head-to-head competition between the Maryland and Virginia finalists – was Silver Spring, Maryland’s “Lanterns and Garlands.” Winners will receive Amazon Fire 10 HD Tablets.

On Sunday, April 3, from 2:00-4:00 p.m. ET, the Festival hosted a surprise pop-up celebration on the 1300 block of A Street NE to honor the “Best Blossom Block” winner. Residents enjoyed music by Future Band DC and JoGo Project provided by DC Porchfest; ice cream treats provided by Captain Cookie; cheesecake provided by Hiatus; chalk art provided by Positive Chalk DC; entertainment by roving magician Mr. D; and a special appearance by D.C. United Mascot Talon.

A digital map with the locations of all registered Petal Porches homes is available here, so the community can plan a walk or drive around the neighborhoods to see and share in the celebration of spring.

For more information about the 2022 Festival, visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org/RediscoverSpring and follow the Festival’s social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

For the health and safety of all participants, the Festival encourages attendees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in alignment with CDC recommendations.

Please review event details on the Festival website to determine whether masking or proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required to attend. Please note that safety requirements may change, so attendees are encouraged to sign up for Festival emails to receive the latest updates.

ABOUT NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL  

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. Hosted from March 20 – April 17, the 2022 Festival will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming that promotes traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.  

Visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information, and check out Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest), and YouTube (@NationalCherryBlossomFestivalDC). The Festival is supported by Leadership Circle Sponsors Events DC and Amazon.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Media Contact: Krysten Copeland
National Cherry Blossom Festival
202-630-3215
krysten@merakicommsgroup.com  

Actor Laz Alonso Will Grand Marshal the 2022 National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade®

Washington, D.C. [April 4, 2022] – The National Cherry Blossom Festival today announced that actor, and Washington, D.C. native, Laz Alonso will serve as grand marshal for the 2022 National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade. Chosen as one of Variety’s “Top Ten Actors to Watch” and part of the new breed of leading men in Hollywood, Alonso is currently starring in Amazon Prime’s series “The Boys.” He can also be seen playing opposite Gabrielle Union and Jessica Alba in their new series “L.A.’s Finest.” Alonso grew up in the D.C area and is a Howard University alumnus. The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade is presented by Events DC.

One of the Festival’s largest celebrations of springtime, the annual Parade will take place on April 9 from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.in D.C. on Constitution Avenue NW (between 7th and 17th Streets). It will feature celebrity entertainment; thematic floats; helium balloons such as Peppa Pig, Clifford the Big Red Dog, Bubbles the Fish, Strawberry Shortcake, and Smurfette; marching bands from across the country; and other performances.

“We’re excited to welcome D.C. native Laz back home to serve as this year’s Parade grand marshal,” said Diana Mayhew, president and CEO Since its inception, the Parade has been one of the most anticipated elements of the National Cherry Blossom Festival,” said Festival President Diana Mayhew. “We invite you to rediscover the spectacle and communal celebration of the Parade with us on Constitution Avenue for an unforgettable experience with family and friends.”

Celebrities and other exciting Parade elements include:

• Taylor Dayne, award-winning and Grammy-nominated vocalist of the 1980’s hit “Tell It to My Heart”
• Rare Essence, Washington’s premier Go-Go band for over four decades
• Grammy-nominated R&B crooner Freddie Jackson, known for his hit song “You Are My Lady”
• 90’s rap duo Tag Team, best known for their 1993 single “Whoomp! (There It Is)
• Ten marching bands from across the nation, including Washington, D.C.’s Ballou High School Majestic Knights Marching Band, Washington, D.C.’s Different Drummers, and the Parade’s inaugural appearance from the United States Naval Academy Drum and Bugle Corps.

Beginning on April 17, local ABC affiliate 7News On Your Side will air the Parade in a delayed telecast at 1 p.m. and again at 8 p.m. on cable channel WJLA 24/7 News. It will be hosted by Good Morning America’s Rob Marciano and Carson Kressley, plus 7News On Your Side (WJLA-TV) anchors Alison Starling, Robert Burton, and Eileen Whelan.

The Parade will also be available for streaming on ABC through May 17 and nationally syndicated to audiences across the country through the support of Events DC beginning on April 17.

Grandstand tickets are limited. Standing along the Parade route between 9th and 15th Streets, NW is free and open to the public.

TICKETS & TRANSPORTATION: Grandstand seats are limited and can be purchased here. The grandstand section offers reserved seating along Constitution Avenue between 15th and 17th Streets, NW. Group tickets for 10 or more are also available. The event is Metro-accessible via the Archives-Navy Memorial stop on the Yellow/Green lines or Federal Triangle on the Blue/Orange lines.

The Parade is supported by Amazon, ANA, Hilton, Mars Petcare, La Croix Sparkling Water, DC Metro, Metropolitan Washington Airport Authority, CSI Printing & Graphics, The Washington Wizards, the University of the District of Columbia (UDC, and Linder Global Events. Media partners include 7News On Your Side (WJLA-TV), The Washington Informer, and The Washington Post. For more information, please visit https://bit.ly/2022Parade.

For more details about Alonso, visit www.lazofficial.com/#laz or his Instagram @lazofficial or Twitter (@lazofficial) pages.

For more information about the 2022 Festival, visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org/RediscoverSpring and follow the Festival’s social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

For the health and safety of all participants, the Festival encourages attendees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in alignment with CDC recommendations.

Please review event details on the Festival website to determine whether masking or proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required to attend. Please note that safety requirements may change, so attendees are encouraged to sign up for Festival emails to receive the latest updates.

ABOUT NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL  

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. Hosted from March 20 – April 17, the 2022 Festival will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming that promotes traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.  

Visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information, and check out Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest), and YouTube (@NationalCherryBlossomFestivalDC). The Festival is supported by Leadership Circle Sponsors Events DC and Amazon.

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Media Contact: Krysten Copeland
National Cherry Blossom Festival   
202-630-3215  
krysten@merakicommsgroup.com 

National Cherry Blossom Festival to Host One-Night-Only Cherry Night Celebration  

Washington, D.C. [March 30, 2022] – Tomorrow, the National Cherry Blossom Festival will host Cherry Night, an exclusive, one-night-only cherry blossom-themed celebration that invites attendees to rediscover Washington, D.C.’s nightlife through music, fashion, and food. Presented in conjunction with the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW), select venues throughout the D.C. area will elevate the dinner scene with custom springtime menus, blossom décor, and free live entertainment from D.C.’s finest DJ’s, bands, and performers. Attendees are encouraged to don their finest pink attire in celebration of the blossoms and for a chance to win prizes. 

 Exclusive Cherry Night venues include:  

• Blackfinn Ameripub – 1620 I St NW 
• Dew Drop Inn – 2801 8th St NE 
• Dirty Habit DC – 555 8th St NW 
• Fred & Stilla at The Ven at Embassy Row – 2015 Massachusetts Ave NW 
• metrobar DC – 640 Rhode Island Ave NE 
• Tavern at Ivy City Smokehouse – 1356 Okie St NE 
• Tonic at Quigley’s – 2036 G St. NW 
• Swingers Crazy Golf – 1330 19th St NW 
• Wunder Garten – 1101 First St NE 
• Zebbie’s Garden – 1223 Connecticut Ave NW 

Cherry Night is part of the Festival’s annual Cherry Picks program, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. Cherry Picks, taking place through the end of the Festival (April 17), will feature more than 100 restaurants and showcase the D.C. region’s diverse dining scene. 

 “We’re thrilled to celebrate the Washington, D.C. area’s diverse and vibrant food scene through Cherry Night, a brand-new extension of the Festival’s Cherry Picks program,” said Diana Mayhew, President and CEO of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. “Each year, millions flock to the region to not only view the blossoms, but also to experience the rich and unique culture, dining, and entertainment our region has to offer. It’s that culture that makes our yearly springtime traditions so special and we’re pleased to share this newest celebration with our neighbors from across the region and the globe.”  

 Registration is free, but required: https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/event/cherry-night/. 

 Guests are encouraged to tag their dining and nightlife experiences on social media using the hashtags #RediscoverSpring and #CherryNight. For more information about the 2022 Festival, visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org/RediscoverSpring and follow the Festival’s social media channels on Facebook,   Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

For the health and safety of all participants, the Festival encourages attendees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in alignment with CDC recommendations. If you are experiencing COVID-like symptoms or have recently been exposed, please choose a digital option such as the #BloomCam for experiencing the Festival. 

 Please note that masking may be required at Festival events in areas where social distancing is not possible. Please review event details on the Festival website to determine whether proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required to attend. Please note that safety requirements may change, so attendees are encouraged to sign up for Festival emails to receive the latest updates.    

ABOUT NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL  

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. Hosted from March 20 – April 17, the 2022 Festival will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming that promotes traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.  

Visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information, and check out Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest), and YouTube (@NationalCherryBlossomFestivalDC). The Festival is supported by Leadership Circle Sponsors Events DC and Amazon.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 22, 2022

WIZARDS TO CELEBRATE CHERRY BLOSSOM NIGHT ON MARCH 29
Wizards and FTX US Launch Collectable Cherry Blossom NFT Collection
Team Will Participate in the Cherry Blossom Festival Parade

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Washington Wizards are inviting all fans to celebrate the cherry blossom season in partnership with the National Cherry Blossom Festival and FTX US on Tuesday, March 29, at 7:00 p.m. when the Chicago Bulls come to Capital One Arena. This marks the third year the Wizards and the National Cherry Blossom Festival have partnered.

“As the city unites in celebration of spring and the National Cherry Blossom Festival, we are excited to partner with the Wizards,” said National Cherry Blossom Festival President, Diana Mayhew. “We are grateful that a portion of ticket proceeds (linked below) supports the Trust for the National Mall’s Adopt a Cherry Tree program, supplementing year-round care for the iconic cherry trees. We thank the Washington Wizards for this opportunity and invite the entire region to join us in celebration of the blossoms during the 2022 National Cherry Blossom Festival through April 17.”

To honor the night, the Wizards will unveil their latest NFT collection presented by FTX US. This “Bloom City Collection” is inspired by the iconic cherry blossoms that are in Washington D.C. The collection includes unique artwork, as well as the opportunity to win experiences, including a trip to the upcoming NBA Global Games in Japan for the 2022 preseason. The NFT’s will be available for purchase by visiting https://ftx.us/nfts.

Avi Dabir, Vice President of Business Development at FTX US, commented, “Through our partnership with MSE, its an honor to collaborate with the team to deliver an impactful collection, such as the ‘Bloom City Collection’ to the marketplace. We look forward to the unveiling of the NFTs that have deep roots in honoring the Cherry Blossom.”

Throughout the game, Washington will highlight cherry blossom season with all LED signage and graphics cherry blossom themed. Cherry blossom facts will also be displayed during timeouts and a short video on the history of cherry blossoms in Washington D.C. will be played. As part of the celebration, the national anthem will be performed by Crystal Kay, who will also perform an original song at halftime.

During warmups, Wizards players will wear a special Nike designed cherry blossom inspired shooting shirt which can be purchase by visiting the Team Store. A variety of other cherry blossom themed merchandise will also be available for purchase at the Team Store.

Fans can purchase tickets by visiting www.washingtonwizards.com/cherryblossomnight. Those who purchase a ticket through the link will receive a cherry blossom themed t-shirt while supplies last.

On April 9, the team will participate in the Cherry Blossom Festival Parade. The cherry-blossom inspired float will feature Wizards Dancers and G Wiz.

Japanese-speaking Wizards fans can visit https://www.nba.com/wizards/jp and follow https://twitter.com/washwizardsjp and https://instagram.com/washwizardsjp for more information on the cherry blossom game, view behind the scenes access and keep up to date with all things Wizards. On Monday, March 14, it was announced that the Wizards will partake in the NBA’s Global Games by playing two 2022 preseason games in Japan against the Golden State Warriors. To read more about the NBA Japan Games 2022 Presented by Rakuten, click here.

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Media Contact: Krysten Copeland
National Cherry Blossom Festival   
202-630-3215  
krysten@merakicommsgroup.com 

National Cherry Blossom Festival & Friends of Oxon Run Co-Host Oxon Run Pinknic & Kite Fly, Presented by Chase 

Festival continues its commitment to expand beloved celebration of spring beyond the Tidal Basin  

Washington, D.C. [March 28, 2022] –– Yesterday, the National Cherry Blossom Festival hosted the Oxon Run Pinknic and Kite Fly, a Blossom Kite Festival “Featured Park” event co-organized with the Friends of Oxon Run and presented by Chase. Taking place at Oxon Run Park in Ward 8, the community event featured a picnic-style lunch provided by Ward 8 based catering company Flavorture, live performances, kite programming and giveaways. 

While the Blossom Kite Festival celebrated 55 years of the beloved springtime tradition on the National Mall, the celebration extended to a number of Featured Parks on Sunday, including Oxon Run Park located in Southeast Washington, D.C.  

“The Festival is once again excited to help expand the beloved tradition of kite-flying beyond the National Mall,” said Diana Mayhew, President and CEO of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. “With help from our friends at Chase, we are pleased to be able to encourage our neighbors in Ward 8 to rediscover spring in their own backyard.”   

Oxon Run Park is home to one of the largest groves of cherry trees outside of the Tidal Basin. Last October, and as part of their continual commitment to communities east of the river, Chase employees joined the National Cherry Blossom Festival to plant a variety of 30 cherry trees in a tree-planting ceremony.  

“While the blooms may not last year-round, our commitment to supporting significant economic development in communities east of the Tidal Basin remains unwavering,” said Dekonti Mends-Cole, Vice President of JPMorgan Chase Mid-Atlantic, Global Philanthropy. “We are pleased to celebrate 55 years of the Kite Festival in the community today and plan to continue to work with the Festival to share the beauty of the blossoms with our neighbors in Ward 8 through tree-plantings in the future.” 

The Blossom Kite Festival is a long-standing tradition and welcomes attendees of all ages to fly kites among the cherry blossom trees. New this year, and for kite enthusiasts hoping to skip the crowds, the Festival invited residents to rediscover the joy of kite flying and participate in kite programming at a Featured Park across all eight wards, Maryland and Virginia. 

The 2022 National Cherry Blossom Festival, which runs through April 17, 2022 includes four weekends of fun, cultural performances and educational opportunities. For more information, please visit https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/rediscoverspring.

ABOUT NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL  

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. Hosted from March 20 – April 17, the 2022 Festival will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming that promotes traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.  

Visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information, and check out Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest), and YouTube (@NationalCherryBlossomFestivalDC). The Festival is supported by Leadership Circle Sponsors Events DC and Amazon.

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Media Contact: Krysten Copeland
National Cherry Blossom Festival   
202-630-3215  
krysten@merakicommsgroup.com 

PETALPALOOZA 
WILL BRING LIVE PERFORMANCES, FIREWORKS AND ENAGAGING ART TO CAPITOL RIVERFRONT 

 New this Year: Public Art Installations to Adorn Capitol Riverfront Neighborhood, Beginning April 1 

 Washington, D.C. [March 28, 2022] –– On Saturday, April 16 from 1-9 p.m., Petalpalooza, presented by Chase, will take over D.C.’s Capitol Riverfront neighborhood at The Yards. The free event will feature live music on three outdoor stages, interactive art installations, larger-than-life games and activities, a beer and wine garden, roving performers, a spectacular fireworks show, and much more. 

New this year as an extension of the Art in Bloom program, presented by Amazon and supported by Park West, the Petalpalooza Art Walk will feature public art installations throughout the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood beginning on April 1 — a full two weeks before Petapalooza kicks off on April 16. Crafted by local artists, these “Instagrammable” experiences are sure to create an incredible backdrop for lasting Festival memories, including a “Swing into Spring” experience presented by Chase. To learn more about the artists and their respective sculptures, click here. 

Local businesses throughout the Capitol Riverfront community are also joining in the collective celebration of spring with sidewalk sales, grab-and-go food orders, Trapeze School performances, and fun activities including themed workouts, canoeing, and kayaking. 

Petalpalooza attendees are invited to enjoy a full day of live music from local artists on three outdoor performance stages and dance floors. The Acoustic stage will feature Joe Downer, Wild Whispers, Like Water and the Fam and Fordson Labs who will perform alongside online sensation Andrew Savoia; the Chase Main Stage will feature JWX: The Jarreau Williams Xperience, Back to Yours, Jordy Searcy and Juice; and the Performance Stage, presented by Mars Arts DC in partnership with Washington Performing Arts, will combine the art of performance with education. Presenting sponsor Chase will offer a cardholder’s lounge and fun photo opportunities for attendees, and a Better Cities for Pets pet comfort station provided by Mars Petcare to help ensure that every four-legged family member has a fantastic Festival experience. 

Fireworks will cap the evening at 8:30 p.m., when a dazzling, choreographed display of fireworks lights up the Anacostia River between the Frederick Douglass and 11th Street Bridges. 

“Chase is so delighted to be the presenting partner of this wonderful event for the fourth year in a row,” says Alfonso Guzman, Chase Mid-Atlantic Regional Director. “Cherry Blossoms season is a springtime tradition and when the flowers bloom it lights up the District. This year is even more meaningful as everyone will be able to enjoy the festivities in person.” 

The Festival invites all participants to tag their Petalpalooza experiences on social media with the hashtags #Petalpalooza and #RediscoverSpring. 

Petalpalooza is easily accessible by Metrobus, DC Circulator’s Blue Route, and Metro’s Green line to Navy Yard-Ballpark or Orange & Blue lines to Capitol South. The Capitol Riverfront also offers eight Capital Bikeshare stations. The fireworks display may be viewed from all locations within the event. In the event of inclement weather, Petalpalooza will be postponed until April 17 from 5–9 PM. 

Petalpalooza is presented by Chase and hosted by Capitol Riverfront, with support by LaCroix Sparkling Water, Mars Petcare, Brookfield Properties, DC Water, Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), City Cruises, Mars Arts DC in partnership with Washington Performing Arts, Park West Gallery, Dunkin’, and WorldStrides. Media partners include NBC4, OutFront Media, and iHeartMedia Radio. 

For the health and safety of all participants, the Festival encourages attendees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in alignment with CDC recommendations. Please note that masking may be required at Festival events in areas where social distancing is not possible. We recommend reviewing event details on the Festival website the day of the event to confirm any restrictions or safety precautions. Please note that requirements may change, so please sign up for the Festival newsletter to receive the latest updates.  For more information, please visit https://bit.ly/2022Petalpalooza. 

ABOUT NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL  

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. Hosted from March 20 – April 17, the 2022 Festival will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming that promotes traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.  

Visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information, and check out Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest), and YouTube (@NationalCherryBlossomFestivalDC). The Festival is supported by Leadership Circle Sponsors Events DC and Amazon.

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Media Contact: Krysten Copeland
National Cherry Blossom Festival   
202-630-3215  
krysten@merakicommsgroup.com 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

National Cherry Blossom Festival Encourages Support of D.C. Area Restaurants Through Cherry Picks and Cherry Night Programs 

  Over 100 Restaurants Participating in 20th Annual Program 

Washington, D.C. [March 22, 2022] – The National Cherry Blossom Festival today announced that over 100 restaurants across Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia are participating in its 20th annual Cherry Picks program. Presented in conjunction with the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington (RAMW), Cherry Picks showcases D.C.’s diverse dining scene and encourages local residents and visitors to support the region’s restaurants throughout the 2022 National Cherry Blossom Festival – March 20-April 17.  

 New this year, Cherry Night will connect Festival attendees with the region’s nightlife. An extension of Cherry Picks, this one-evening RSVP-only event will take place on March 31, 2022 and celebrates a select group of vibrant restaurants, bars, entertainment clubs, and lounges, some of whom are also part of the Cherry Picks program. Cherry Night venues will encourage patrons to dress in pink attire while enjoying one-night-only custom menu items, free live entertainment, and cherry blossom-themed experiences.  

  “Each spring, area restaurants celebrate the season’s arrival with the Festival through Cherry Picks and I’m so excited to introduce Cherry Night as another amazing way to celebrate this year,” said Diana Mayhew, president and CEO of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. “We are inviting the entire community to rediscover spring throughout the 2022 Festival and that includes trying a new restaurant or supporting some beloved favorites in a new way.”  

 During the Festival, guests are encouraged to tag their dining and nightlife experiences on social media using the hashtags #RediscoverSpring, #CherryPicks and #CherryNight. Participating Cherry Picks restaurants can be viewed on this map and include:  

  1789 Restaurant, Alta Strada Italian Restaurant, Alta Strada Mosaic, Apero DC, Arepa Zone, Baan Siam, Bangkok Joe’s, Bartaco (All Locations), Ben’s Chili Bowl (All Locations), Blackfinn Ameripub, Busboys and Poets (Hyattsville, 450k, Anacostia, Brookland, Takoma, 14th Street and Shirlington),Cafe du Parc, Café Riggs, CAFE GEORGETOWN, Casta’s Rum Bar, China Chilcano, Ciel Social Club, Circa (Clarendon, Foggy Bottom, Navy Yard) City Winery Washington DC, Clyde’s (Gallery Place and Georgetown), Georgetown Colada Shop, Cranes, Crazy Aunt Helen’s, Cuba Libre Restaurant and Rum Bar, DBGB Kitchen & Bar, Dirty Habit, District Winery, Estadio, Farmers & Distillers, Farmers Fishers Bakers, Fitzgerald’s, Founding Farmers (Reston Station, Montgomery County,Tysons), Foxtrot Market (Dupont Circle, Georgetown and Mt. Vernon Square) Fred & Stilla, Gerrard Street Kitchen, Gypsy Kitchen, Hank’s Oyster Bar (All Locations) Highline, HipCityVeg (All Locations), Ice Cream Jubilee, Il Canale, Immigrant Food, Immigrant Food+ @ The Planet Word Museum, Jaleo, JINYA Ramen Bar, KAZ Sushi Bistro, LCD – La Côte D’Or Café L’Enfant Bar and Grill, Lobby Bar at The Fairmont, Lyle’s, Mélange, metrobar, Morris American Bar, NAMA Sushi Bar, Nobu Washington D.C., Oath Pizza, Old Ebbitt Grill, Open City, Osteria Morini, Oyamel, RavenHook Bakehouse @ Union Market, ROCKLANDS Barbeque and Grilling Company (Alexandria and DC), SEOULSPICE (NoMa, Penn Quarter and Tenleytown), Serenata, Sidecar, Slice & Pie, South Block (All Locations), Spanish Diner, Takara 14, The Coupe, The Creamery at Union Market, The Diner, The Hamilton, The Pig, The Salt Line, The Tavern at Ivy City Smokehouse, The Tombs, TICO DC, Toki Underground, Tonic at Quigley’s, True Food Kitchen, Truluck’s Ocean’s Finest Seafood & Crab, Tryst, Uptown Market, Wildfire, Yume Sushi and Zaytinya.  

 Cherry Nights venues include: The Tavern at Ivy City Smokehouse, metrobar, Swingers Crazy Golf, Dirty Habit DC, The Dew Drop Inn, Fred & Stilla at The Ven at Embassy Row, Tonic at Quigley’s, Wunder Garten, Blackfinn Ameripub and Zebbie’s Garden. 

 For the health and safety of all participants, the Festival encourages attendees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in alignment with CDC recommendations. If you are experiencing COVID-like symptoms or have recently been exposed,   please choose a digital option such as the #BloomCam for experiencing the Festival. Please note that masking may be required at Festival events in areas where social distancing is not possible. Please review event details on the Festival website to determine whether proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required to attend. Please note that safety requirements may change, so attendees are encouraged to sign up for Festival emails to receive the latest updates.    

 The Festival encourages participants to engage with the community by posting pictures, videos, and memories to their social media channels using the hashtag #RediscoverSpring. For more information about the 2022 Festival, visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org/RediscoverSpring and follow the Festival’s social media channels on Facebook,   Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. 

ABOUT NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL  

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. Hosted from March 20 – April 17, the 2022 Festival will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming that promotes traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.  

Visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information, and check out Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest), and YouTube (@NationalCherryBlossomFestivalDC). The Festival is supported by Leadership Circle Sponsors Events DC and Amazon.

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Media Contact: Krysten Copeland
National Cherry Blossom Festival   
202-630-3215  
krysten@merakicommsgroup.com 

ABOUT NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL  

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. Hosted from March 20 – April 17, the 2022 Festival will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming that promotes traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.  

Visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information, and check out Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest), and YouTube (@NationalCherryBlossomFestivalDC). The Festival is supported by Leadership Circle Sponsors Events DC and Amazon.

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Media Contact: Krysten Copeland
National Cherry Blossom Festival   
202-630-3215  
krysten@merakicommsgroup.com 

National Cherry Blossom Festival Announces Opening of the Tidal Basin Welcome Area March 19 – April 3, Hosted with the National Park Service
Live performances to return to the ANA Stage 

Washington, D.C. [MARCH 17, 2022] – The National Cherry Blossom Festival will offer free live performances and educational opportunities from March 19 – April 3, 2022 at the Tidal Basin Welcome Area hosted with the National Park Service at a new location on West Basin Drive SW (between the Martin Luther King, Jr., and Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorials and near the Japanese Pagoda).  

The Tidal Basin Welcome Area will open at 10 a.m. daily from March 19 – April 3, to provide resources and information for admirers of the blossoms. The National Park Service will offer Ranger talks, Bloomin’ Junior Ranger activities, and more.  The daily live performances on the ANA stage presented by All Nippon Airways will take place 12 p.m. – 6 p.m. and showcase a cross-cultural mix of American, Japanese and other performing arts celebrating 110 years since the gift of trees from Tokyo to Washington, DC. A full list of performers and performance schedules can be viewed here. 

Two special programming days are returning this year – BloomBars’ Day on Thursday, March 24 and Passport DC Preview Day on Thursday, March 31. Developed in collaboration with Columbia Heights based BloomBars and Cultural Tourism DC, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, respectively, the days will feature vibrant performances, selected and curated by the aforementioned parties. 

Concessions will be available via food trucks, and a large beverage tent will be managed by Old Ox Brewery, crafters of FestivALE, a cherry blossom-themed brew made in collaboration with the National Cherry Blossom Festival. 

Additionally, audiences across the globe will be able to view the Tidal Basin and cherry blossoms at peak bloom with the return of the #BloomCam, supported by Trust for the National Mall, where audiences around the globe will be able to view the Tidal Basin and the cherry blossoms at peak bloom. Guests can also experience Live Ranger Talks, hosted online by National Park Service, which will give them an opportunity to learn more about the trees from the experts.  

For more information about the Tidal Basin Welcome Area and ANA Stage, please visit https://nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/event/tidal-basin/. 

For the health and safety of all participants, the Festival encourages attendees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in alignment with CDC recommendations. If you are experiencing COVID-like symptoms or have recently been exposed, please choose a digital option such as the #BloomCam for experiencing the Festival. Please note that masking may be required at Festival events in areas where social distancing is not possible. Please review event details on the Festival website to determine whether proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required to attend. Please note that safety requirements may change, so attendees are encouraged to sign up for Festival emails to receive the latest updates.   

For more information about the 2022 Festival, visit nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/RediscoverSpring and follow the Festival’s social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

ABOUT NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL  

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. Hosted from March 20 – April 17, the 2022 Festival will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming that promotes traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.  

Visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information, and check out Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest), and YouTube (@NationalCherryBlossomFestivalDC). The Festival is supported by Leadership Circle Sponsors Events DC and Amazon.

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Media Contact: Krysten Copeland
National Cherry Blossom Festival   
202-630-3215  
krysten@merakicommsgroup.com 

National Cherry Blossom Festival Announces Free Tickets Now Available for Opening Ceremony 

Co-presented with The Japan Foundation, the Festival’s annual kick-off celebration will showcase Japanese performing arts and culture on the first day of spring 

Washington, D.C. [FEBRUARY 25, 2022] – The National Cherry Blossom Festival  announced today that its signature Opening Ceremony, an artistic celebration, this year commemorating the 110th anniversary of the gift of trees from Tokyo to Washington, D.C., and an annual tribute to the longstanding friendship between Japan and the U.S., will return to the historic Warner Theatre on Sunday, March 20 at 5 p.m. ET.  

Co-presented with The Japan Foundation, the Opening Ceremony will be co-hosted by ABC7/WJLA-TV StormWatch7 Meteorologist Veronica Johnson and actor and comedian Yoshi Amao. The celebration will feature spirited traditional and contemporary performances from acclaimed artists with ties to Japan and the U.S., plus special appearances by Japanese Ambassador Koji Tomita and other dignitaries and special guests.  

Tickets are available now: https://bit.ly/2022OpeningCeremony. Additionally, audiences across the globe are invited to join in this unique cultural celebration via Livestream on the Festival’s YouTube Channel. 

“The Opening Ceremony is a powerful moment to celebrate 110 years of the gift of trees, and come together to appreciate a love of the blossoms which unites us across cultures,” says Festival President and CEO Diana Mayhew, “We encourage all viewers – from wherever they are – to tag their Opening Ceremony experience on social media with #OpeningCeremony and #RediscoverSpring as we kick off this year’s celebration with cultural and musical performances you won’t want to miss.” 

Acts during the Opening Ceremony will include a number Japanese performers including:  

• Samurai Artist KAMUI, who holds Quentin Tarantino’s “Kill Bill: Vol 1” as one of their many theater credits 
• World-renowned musicians Keisho Ohno (Shamisen player) and Wadaiko drummer Toshihiro Yuta 
• Internationally known MINYO CRUSADERS, a 10-piece band that combines Japanese traditional folk songs (Minyo), with various rhythms from Latin, Afro-Cuban, and Afro-Caribbean music.  

There will be additional performances by D.C.’s Unstoppables Steppers, an award-winning youth step team, and musical interludes by DJ Heat, official DJ for the WNBA Washington Mystics and the NBA Washington Wizards. 

TICKETS: While tickets for the Opening Ceremony are free, advanced ticketing is required and there is a $5 processing fee. Proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required for attendees ages 12 and up. Additionally, all attendees will be required to follow COVID-19 protocols as outlined by local health authorities and Warner Theatre. Please check the website for the most up to date information: https://bit.ly/2022OpeningCeremony 

TRANSPORTATION: The Festival recommends booking convenient and affordable parking in advance through SpotHero, the nation’s leading parking reservations app. To reserve a parking spot, visit the National Cherry Blossom Festival SpotHero Parking Page and book a spot with rates up to 50% off drive-up.  

The closest Metro station is Metro Center (Blue, Orange, Red and Sliver lines).  

The Opening Ceremony is being co-presented with The Japan Foundation and supported in part by the JCAW Foundation, Inc., Toyota North America, Inc., the Japan National Tourism Organization, and Warner Theatre.  Other contributors include Daiichi Sankyo, MUFG Bank, Ltd., and National Press Club, and the Washington Post is a media partner.    

For the health and safety of all participants, the Festival encourages attendees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 in alignment with CDC recommendations. Please note that masking may be required at Festival events in areas where social distancing is not possible. We recommend reviewing event details on the Festival website to determine whether proof of COVID-19 vaccination is required to attend. Please note that safety requirements may change, so please sign up for the Festival newsletter to receive the latest updates.  For more information, please visit https://bit.ly/2022OpeningCeremony 

ABOUT NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL  

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. Hosted from March 20 – April 17, the 2022 Festival will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming that promotes traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.  

Visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information, and check out Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest), and YouTube (@NationalCherryBlossomFestivalDC). The Festival is supported by Leadership Circle Sponsors Events DC and Amazon.

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Media Contact: Krysten Copeland
National Cherry Blossom Festival   
202-630-3215  
krysten@merakicommsgroup.com 

NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES RETURN OF THE ANNUAL BLOSSOM KITE FESTIVAL ON THE NATIONAL MALL 

As kite enthusiasts celebrate National Kite-Flying Day today, Festival invites the region to ‘Rediscover Spring’ during Blossom Kite Festival this March 

Washington, D.C. [February 8, 2022] —For the first time in two years, the Blossom Kite Festival is returning to the National Mall on Saturday, March 26, 2022, from 10 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. This year marks the 55th anniversary of the beloved springtime kite-flying tradition and will feature kite performances and competitions, kite-making activities, a Family Field with children’s activities and other features suitable for all ages. The iconic outdoor event is fun, free and open to the public. 

As kite enthusiasts all over the country launch their kites in celebration of National Kite-Flying Day today, the Festival is inviting people in the greater Washington, D.C., area and beyond to rediscover spring during the larger celebration on the National Mall or in their own neighborhood parks in D.C. and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia.  

“The Blossom Kite Festival will once again welcome our neighbors from our community and across the world to join the colorful spectacle against the backdrop of the Washington Monument and the iconic cherry trees,” said Diana Mayhew, President and CEO of National Cherry Blossom Festival. “We are excited to see the kites soaring high on the National Mall and in neighborhood parks throughout the region during this beautiful outdoor springtime celebration. We encourage all participants to tag their experiences on social media using the hashtag #BlossomKiteFestival.” 

FEATURED PARKS: This year, participants can also join the celebration from their homes, favorite neighborhood park, or anywhere across the globe. Interested parties should visit https://bit.ly/2022BlossomKiteFestival to find a Featured Park to show off their skills, virtually learn how to make and fly kites and take to the skies on March 26th and 27th. Kite flyers can purchase commemorative kites from previous years while supplies last, and the 2022 commemorative kite featuring the work of 2022 Official Artist Lea Craigie-Marshall, which will be available for purchase at a later date. 

The Blossom Kite Festival is supported by Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc. (OAPI), Chase, Mars Petcare and LaCroix Sparkling Water. Media partners include Washington Parent and iHeart Radio.  

For more information, please visit https://bit.ly/2022BlossomKiteFestival and sign up for the Festival newsletter to be the first to know the latest information about the Blossom Kite Festival, including when the 2022 commemorative kite will be available. 

ABOUT NATIONAL CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL  

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the world’s great celebrations of spring. Hosted from March 20 – April 17, the 2022 Festival will include four weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming that promotes traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit.   

Visit NationalCherryBlossomFestival.org or call 877.44.BLOOM for more information, and check out Facebook (@CherryBlossomFestival), Instagram (@CherryBlossFest), Twitter (@CherryBlossFest), and YouTube (@NationalCherryBlossomFestivalDC).

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