March 16, 2004

National Cherry Blossom Festival March 27–April 11

This year’s festival marks the 92nd celebration of the original gift of 3,000 cherry trees by the city of Tokyo to the people of Washington, DC, in 1912. The events run from March 27 through April 11, and according to Park Service forecasters the blossoms are expected to reach their peak in time for the week-long celebration.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival Tidal Basin Stage hosts cross-cultural music, dance, song and demonstrations daily from noon to 1:30 pm.

The festival peaks with the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade® April 3. The Downtown Jaycees of Washington, DC, host the event, which follows historic Constitution Avenue. Spectacular floats, costumed dance troupes, giant helium balloons and special celebrity guests are features of the event. Tickets for reserved grandstand seats are available for immediate purchase through Ticketmaster.com or 432-SEAT. For more information about the many events visit the festival Web site at www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.

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