Events category: Art

Fabric of Identity: Bingata in Okinawa and Beyond

The George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum

Fabric of Identity: Bingata in Okinawa and Beyond

Curator Lee Talbot will introduce bingata,a unique dyeing technique from the island of Okinawa. For hundreds of years,bold bingatafabrics indicated rank at the royal court of the Ryukyu Kingdom, but the art almost disappeared with the kingdom’s demise. After WWII, resolute craftsmen revived production, and today bingata textiles are among the most widely recognized symbols of Okinawan identity.

Drawing from primary sources including fabrics, workshop archives and interviews with makers and designers, Talbot will examine changes in the production, consumption and social function of bingata from the mid-19th century through the present day.

REGISTER at https://secure2.convio.net/gwu/site/Calendar?id=117695&view=Detail

About Lee Talbot
Lee Talbot joined The Textile Museum as a curator in 2007, specializing in East Asian textiles. He has curated numerous exhibitions and published catalogues, articles, and textbook chapters. Talbot was previously curator at the Chung Young Yang Embroidery Museum in Seoul, Korea. He has a bachelor’s from Rhodes College, MBA from the Thunderbird School of Global Management, and master’s from Bard Graduate Center.

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Family Day: Japanese Fashion

The George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum

Family Day: Japanese Fashion

Celebrate cherry-blossom season at the museum with a family day featuring Japanese kimono, “happi” coats and crafts for all ages. Performances of traditional Okinawan dance will showcase the colorful costume of the islands, and guests can enjoy the beautiful melodies of Japan’s national instrument, the “koto.” Design your own kimono bookmark, make a cherry blossom pendant or join us for a family-friendly tour of the galleries, including Japanese textiles on display in Irresistible: The Global Patterns of Ikat.

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PLAN YOUR FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin is now a four-week extravaganza spanning Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. From exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants to, vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches, see the Washington, DC area as you can only see it once a year!

Check out our other events

Blossom Kite Festival Presented by Amazon

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3/30

The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade Presented by Events DC

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4/13

ISEKAI: Blooming Parallel Worlds

ARTECHOUSE

ISEKAI: Blooming Parallel Worlds

You are invited to the 7th annual celebration of cherry blossoms at ARTECHOUSE DC!

Enter a mesmerizing universe fusing art, technology, and tradition, as we bring the enchanting beauty of cherry blossoms to life through alternative universes filled with adventure and wonder.

This year, the ARTECHOUSE Studio explores multiple universes of blossoms in ISEKAI: Blooming Parallel Worlds, inspired by the Isekai genre of Anime. Over the years we have invited almost a million visitors to share in the Cherry Blossoms’ beauty, producing springtime exhibitions inspired by all-female artists, Ukiyo-e (a traditional Japanese style of art) , climate change, and the power of our natural world. Each exhibition connects us to our surroundings through innovative technology and one-of-a-kind digital storytelling.

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PLAN YOUR FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin is now a four-week extravaganza spanning Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. From exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants to, vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches, see the Washington, DC area as you can only see it once a year!

Check out our other events

Pink Tie Party

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3/15

Opening Ceremony

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3/23

Japanese Culture Day

Library of Congress

Japanese Culture Day

Japanese Culture Day will feature family activities, including Japanese drum and traditional dance performances, storytelling, and arts and crafts from Japan. Children, families and teachers can learn about Japanese culture through reading, writing and craft-making with Japanese cultural and linguistic professionals. In connection with this event, Japanese-American author Misa Sugiura will present a book talk about her series “Momo Arashima,” with focus on her research and incorporation of Japanese folklore, mythology, and legends into her middle grade fantasy novel. Advanced timed-entry reservations are recommended at https://loc.usedirect.com/LOC. Free same-day tickets will be made available at 9 a.m., using the same link.

Learn more

PLAN YOUR FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin is now a four-week extravaganza spanning Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. From exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants to, vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches, see the Washington, DC area as you can only see it once a year!

Check out our other events

Pink Tie Party

Let's Go!
3/15

Opening Ceremony

Let's Go!
3/23

Japanese Rinpa Screens

Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art

Japanese Rinpa Screens

Explore a selection of screens painted in the Rinpa style, an integral part of traditional Japanese interiors. These three-dimensional, folded screens play with perception, cleverly tricking the eye so that scenes of undulating dragons, stormy seas and elegant foliage come to life.

VISIT WEBSITE

PLAN YOUR FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin is now a four-week extravaganza spanning Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. From exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants, vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches, see the Washington, DC area as you can only see it once a year!

Explore the Festival's Roots

Travel to Japan is open once again, and we invite you experience and explore Japan firsthand. Learn more about the Festival partners who would love to help you plan your trip!

TRAVEL TO JAPAN

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The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade presented by Events DC

Let's Go!
4/15

Sakura Matsuri- Japanese Street Festival

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4/15 - 4/16

Kimono for Kids

The George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum

Kimono for Kids

Staff and docents of the George Washington University Museum and The Textile Museum will lead an interactive discussion of Japanese traditional clothing, plus a simple craft project made from materials found at home and inspired by Japanese textiles.

REGISTER at https://secure2.convio.net/gwu/site/Calendar?id=117694&view=Detail

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Kite Making Workshop

National Children's Museum

Kite Making Workshop

Stop by National Children’s Museum for a free kite making workshop from March 24-26 from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Families are invited to create their own kites using simple materials. Along the way, you’ll complete different design challenges to answer questions like, “What happens if I add two tails or more ribbons to my kite?” After testing and tweaking your design, you’ll walk away prepared to fly your own homemade kite at the Blossom Kite Festival on Saturday, March 26! The workshop will be held outside the Museum’s main entrance under the blue awnings. In the case of poor weather, it will be moved inside to the Museum’s Entry Hall

MAP YOUR FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin is now a four-week extravaganza spanning Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. Click the filters on our interactive map to see all that the Festival has to offer and craft a tailored experience as you Rediscover Spring. From exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants to vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches, see the Washington, DC area as you can only see it once a year!

MAP THE BLOSSOMS

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Southwest Chamber Players Gala 25th Anniversary Concerts

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Mosaic District Art Blooms

Mosaic District

Art Blooms

As the DMV’s cherry blossoms burst into bloom, Mosaic District welcomes Spring with a two-day festival: Art Blooms at Mosaic. On April 6 and 7, friends, families, and surrounding communities are invited to a weekend of fun-filled family activities while taking part in the nation’s favorite springtime celebrations.

In partnership with URBNmarket and FRESHFARM; Mosaic District will transform into an outdoor festival with a host of 90+ handmade and vintage vendors, special performances, and a variety of activities for the whole family. From live entertainment throughout the festival and kids’ activities to cherry blossom Arts n Crafts vendors, a farmers’ market, and much more!

Learn more

PLAN YOUR FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin is now a four-week extravaganza spanning Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. From exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants to, vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches, see the Washington, DC area as you can only see it once a year!

Check out our other events

Pink Tie Party

Let's Go!
3/15

Opening Ceremony

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3/23

NAOTARO MORIYAMA 20th Anniversary Tour “What a Wonderful World”

The Japan Foundation

NAOTARO MORIYAMA 20th Anniversary Tour “What a Wonderful World”

With the album “Wonderful World” commemorating the 20th anniversary of his debut in Japan, folk singer Naotaro Moriyama has been embarking on his first nationwide anniversary tour. Since June 2022, he has performed 101 concerts in a duration of a year and four months, kicking off his tour at Live House Mandara in Kichijoji, a place that holds fond memories from his indie days, earlier in his career. 

The 102nd stop on the tour, his first performance at Ryogoku Kokugikan was announced as the extra leg of the tour. The 103rd stop on the tour will be a performance in Washington, D.C., U.S.A. 

He will be performing “Sakura (solo)” with pianist Daisuke Sakurai and the National Children’s Chorus. 

This event is co-organized with Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art.

Buy Tickets

PLAN YOUR FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin is now a four-week extravaganza spanning Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. From exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants to, vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches, see the Washington, DC area as you can only see it once a year!

Check out our other events

Pink Tie Party

Let's Go!
3/15

National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade presented by Events DC

Let's Go!
4/13

National Gallery Nights: Flowers After Hours

THe National Gallery of Art

National Gallery Nights: Flowers After Hours

The East Building comes to life in this popular after-hours program. Join us for themed evenings with music, live performances, artmaking, pop-up talks, and more.

Don your best fascinator and celebrate spring and all things floral! At this ode to cherry blossoms, you can:

Experience dance performances by Emerge 125 and artist demonstrations on the 4th Street Plaza—open to all without registration.

Create wearable flower art with local artist Emily Paluska.

Get your photo taken at our flower wall and team up with friends to complete a blossom scavenger hunt.

Hear from emerging artists and wellness plant company Grounded in special pop-up talks.

Peek behind the scenes with National Gallery staff.

Dance to the sounds of DJ Rustam Opsanoff.

Enjoy art on the Roof Terrace.

Learn more

YOUR FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin is now a four-week extravaganza spanning Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. From exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants to, vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches, see the Washington, DC area as you can only see it once a year!

Check out our other events

Tidal Basin Welcome Area & ANA Stage

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3/18 - 4/2

Petalpalooza Presented by Chase

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4/6

National Gallery of Art First Saturday

THe National Gallery of Art

First Saturday

Celebrate Spring with the National Gallery of Art during the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Create floral art inspired by the season with paper artist Emily Paluska and practice sketching with a stunning floral arrangement.

Explore the East Building’s collection of flower art with gallery activities, enjoy face painting, listen to Taiko drummers, and more on this special day that celebrates the springtime!

On the first Saturday of each month the National Gallery springs to life with a variety of engaging activities for all ages.

VISIT WEBSITE

YOUR FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin is now a four-week extravaganza spanning Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. From exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants to, vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches, see the Washington, DC area as you can only see it once a year!

Check out our other events

Tidal Basin Welcome Area & ANA Stage

Let's Go!
3/18 - 4/2

Petalpalooza Presented by Chase

Let's Go!
4/6

Online Museum Tours: Cherry Blossom

Smithsonian's National Museum of Asian Art

Online Museum Tours: Cherry Blossom

The revered sakura, or cherry blossom, has been celebrated in landscapes, figure paintings, and prints by artists from medieval Japan to Katsushika Hokusai and beyond. Long after the cherry blossoms fall in Washington, DC, you are invited to embrace hanami, the traditional Japanese custom of “flower viewing,” by going cherry blossom viewing in the museum’s Japanese art collections!

Schedule a free online tour for your group of ten or more adults. These live, interactive tours feature high-resolution images of artworks and provide virtual visitors an opportunity to engage in conversation with the museum’s docents. To schedule your adult group, please use the online reservation form. All online tours must be scheduled at least four weeks in advance.

Book Cherry Blossom Online Tours for Adults now by clicking below:

ONLINE TOUR FOR ADULTS

Cherry Blossom Online Tours for pre-K-8 Students is now available from March 14 to April 29, 2022. Book now by clicking below:

ONLINE TOUR FOR PRE-K-8 STUDENTS

What is it about cherry trees, or sakura, that makes them so beloved? During this virtual field trip, students will explore hanami, the traditional Japanese custom of “flower viewing.” Through paintings, woodblock prints, and other art forms, students will discover Japanese symbols, values, and traditions associated with blooming cherry trees. Students may write poetry; learn Japanese characters; or “jump into” a work of art and imagine what they might hear, feel, see, and smell.

The museum offers reserved live, interactive online learning programs led by docents on a daily basis, except for Wednesdays and federal holidays. All programs are subject to scheduling availability. Programs can be customized to last from twenty minutes to one hour and will be hosted live in an encrypted, password-secure meeting on the Zoom platform.

MAP YOUR FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin is now a four-week extravaganza spanning Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. Click the filters on our interactive map to see all that the Festival has to offer and craft a tailored experience as you Rediscover Spring. From exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants to vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches, see the Washington, DC area as you can only see it once a year!

MAP THE BLOSSOMS

Check out our other events

What Makes a Good Karaoke Song?

Let's Go!
3/21

Southwest Chamber Players Gala 25th Anniversary Concerts

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4/1 - 4/3

Performance: Crossroads of Japanese Music

Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art

Performance: Crossroads of Japanese Music

Japanese koto virtuoso and composer Yumi Kurosawa explores a musical perspective on the Japanese and Chinese art in the Freer exhibition, Mind Over Matter: Zen in Medieval Japan. She performs on a modern twenty-string koto and is joined by violinist Emil Israel Chudnovsky and Chinese flute (dizi) virtuoso Yimin Miao. Their program features classical music from Kyoto and China as well as new music composed by Kurosawa for this event.
VISIT WEBSITE

MAP YOUR FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin is now a four-week extravaganza spanning Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. Click the filters on our interactive map to see all that the Festival has to offer and craft a tailored experience as you Rediscover Spring. From exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants to vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches, see the Washington, DC area as you can only see it once a year!

MAP THE BLOSSOMS

Check out our other events

What Makes a Good Karaoke Song?

Let's Go!
3/21

Southwest Chamber Players Gala 25th Anniversary Concerts

Let's Go!
4/1 - 4/3

Pink in the Park: Art of Pink

Premier Event

Pink in the Park

Sponsored by Amazon

Pink in the Park: The Art of Pink, sponsored by Amazon, is a premier event of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

The Art of Pink will serve as the kick-off for Pink in the Park series in National Landing. Creating a temporary mural park at Met Park, four artists will paint several large sculptural walls in Met Park, creating a vibrant installation themed with pink and the Cherry Blossoms. An opening celebration on April 6th will include art vendors, live art activations, food and music. The murals will stay up the duration of the Pink in the Park series and will be removed on April 14th.

CLAIM TICKETS

PLAN YOUR FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin is now a four-week extravaganza spanning Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. From exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants to, vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches, see the Washington, DC area as you can only see it once a year!

Other Events You May Be Interested in:

Blossom Kite Festival

Let's Go!
3/30

The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade Presented by Events DC

Let's Go!
4/13

Pink Torpedoes: Cherry Blossom Art In An Old Munitions Factory

Torpedo Factory Art Center

Pink Torpedoes: Cherry Blossom Art In An Old Munitions Factory

Explore all three floors of Torpedo Factory Art Center, home to the nation’s largest collection of working-artists’ open studios under one roof, to view a building wide art exhibition inspired by the Cherry Blossom. Artists will exhibit one or more unique artworks in their studio or gallery and explore their own interpretations of the Cherry Blossom, cultural, colorful, visceral. Visitors will discover new ways of thinking about the seasonal pink event of the region.

Can’t visit the exhibition? – a select exhibition of artwork will be on view at torpedofactory.org along with artist commentary.

Pink Torpedos
Learn more

PLAN YOUR FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE

What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin is now a four-week extravaganza spanning Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. From exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants to, vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches, see the Washington, DC area as you can only see it once a year!

Check out our other events

The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade presented by Events DC

Let's Go!
4/13

Sakura Matsuri- Japanese Street Festival

Let's Go!
4/13 - 4/14