Cvent

Washington, DC started the year off as a much sought-after destination thanks to the well-attended presidential inauguration. Now, the city will no doubt keep its popularity high as it kicks off one of its most celebrated annual traditions.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival starts Saturday, March 28, and runs through April 12 (peak dates are April 1-4). More than a million visitors are expected to visit the city to enjoy the 3,700 cherry trees lining the banks of the Tidal Basin and to take part in a number of celebratory DC events. Among the most popular are the Smithsonian Kite Festival (March 28), the Grand Sushi & Sake Tasting (April 1), the Parade of the National Cherry Blossom Festival (April 4), the Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival (April 4) and the Cherry Blossom 10-Mile Run (April 5).

This year's Festival marks the 97th celebration of the original gift of 3,000 cherry trees by the city of Tokyo to the people of Washington, DC. Not surprisingly, Washington, DC hotels, DC restaurants and more are getting in on the action, so make sure to check back next week to read about great options for your Festival events!