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Tickets are just $5 each, all fees included, and you can purchase them now.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival’s signature Opening Ceremony is an artistic celebration of the 1912 gift of trees from Tokyo to Washington, DC, and an annual tribute to the longstanding friendship between Japan and the United States. This unique, one-time-only performance will feature special performances from acclaimed artists with ties to both countries.
The event features performances from world-renowned artists connected to both the US and Japan, showcasing the depth and diversity of Japanese arts, including breathtaking traditional sword dances by Futago Onikenbai; pop music by award-winning singer Ayaka Hirahara, and modern dance choreographed by Takehiro Ueyama.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival’s Opening Ceremony is co-presented with The Japan Foundation. The Host Sponsor is The Daughters of the American Revolution. The Supporting Sponsors are Daiichi Sankyo, JCAW, Japan National Tourism Organization, Toyota Motor North America, Inc. The Contributing Sponsors are EventEQ, MUFG Bank, Ltd. The Media Partners are 7 News & 24/7 News WJLA. Special thanks to the Embassy of Japan, The Webster Group – Global Event Management.
Audiences around the world can view this unique cultural ceremony by livestream on the Festival’s YouTube Channel: @CherryBlossFest.
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Parking is limited in the District, especially during the National Cherry Blossom Festival. It’s highly recommended that visitors use DC’s alternative transportation modes like Capital Bikeshare, DC Streetcar, Scooters, DC Circulator, Metrobus, and Metrorail to make the most of their experience.
Trigger Warning: Please be advised that this production may contain strobe lighting effects, sudden loud noises, and the use of a confetti cannon.
Bag Policy: Only bags that are small enough to fit under your own seat may be brought into the venue.
The show will be live-streamed on the Festival YouTube channel.
CO-PRESENTED WITH
2026 SUPPORTING SPONSORS
2025 SPONSORS
2026 media sponsors
2026 Contributing sponsor
special thANKS
- Embassy of Japan
- The Webster Group – Global Event Management
2026 festival micro mobility partner
Mobility Access
This event is wheelchair-accessible.
Communication Access
ASL interpretation will be provided.
Service Animals
Service animals are always allowed.
Sensory Considerations
This event typically draws large crowds and can be noisy. If someone in your group has sensory sensitivities, you may wish to bring headphones or earplugs. In addition, there may be the use of a confetti cannon and/or flashing lights.
seating
Accessible seating is available. If you or a member of your party requires specific seating arrangements, please contact rsvp@ncbfdc.org in advance so we can accommodate your needs.
Additional Accommodations
For any other accessibility needs, please reach out to ncbf@ncbf.org so we can help ensure a positive experience
