The National Cherry Blossom Festival kicks off Saturday and runs through April 10. Most events are free. Here are some highlights: Family Day and Opening Ceremony
Great fun for kids and adults.
When: 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday (Family Day), 4 to 5:30 p.m. (Opening Ceremony)
Info: At the National Building Museum. Free.
Kite Festival
Heads up — the annual Kite Festival is on a Sunday this year.
When: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday
Info: Washington Monument grounds. Free.
Fireworks
One of the most popular parts of the Cherry Blossom festivities, the Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival is now an all-day event.
When: Entertainment begins at 1 p.m. April 2, fireworks at 8:30 p.m.
Info: Southwest Waterfront. Free
Cherry Blast: Art + Music Dance Party
While the festival offers tons of family-oriented events, this multimedia party is 21 and up.
When: 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. April 2
Info: 700 Water St. $10.
Blossoms & Baseball
The Nationals’ season gets under way, with the Cherry Blossom Festival in mind.
When: 1:05 p.m. April 2, 1:35 p.m. April 3
Info: Nationals Park. Ticket prices vary.
Petal Fest & Performance Stage
For two days, enjoy live music and other performances at the Ronald Reagan Building.
When: Noon to 8 p.m. April 8 (D.C. Day); Noon to 6 p.m. April 9
Info: Woodrow Wilson Plaza. Free.
Festival Parade
The biggest event of the festival, the parade rarely disappoints.
When: 10 a.m. to noon April 9
Info: On Constitution Avenue from 7th to 17th streets NW. Free to stand, $17 for grandstand seats.
Japanese Street Festival
Super-popular event now charges, but only the adults have to pay.
When: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. April 9
Info: 12th St. and Pennsylvania Avenue. $5.
Bike Rally and Ride
BYOB — Bring Your Own Bike — and enjoy a four-mile ride, along with face painting, performances and more.
When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. April 10
Info: At Yard’s Park. Free.
For more info, visit nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.
