8 Delicious Ways to Celebrate Cherry Blossoms Around DC -

By Natalie Colonna

Cherry blossom season is often filled with tourists and Instagram–worthy photoshoots. Now, your inner foodie can also celebrate in the season’s cherry blossom festivities. The National Cherry Blossom Festival officially starts Wednesday, March 20 and will continue to celebrate Washington’s favorite florals through April 14. Peak bloom is expected between April 3rd and 6th, but you can make the most of the season with a variety of citywide events and restaurant specials.

BGR

Slurp on BGR’s seasonal featured cherry blossom milkshake. The rich and creamy blend is flavored with Bordeaux cherries and topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Grab your cherry blossom shake at one of their D.C. locations while supplies last.

Magnolia bakery

New to cherry blossom season in the District, Union Station’s Magnolia Bakery has welcome this time of year by creating blossom–themed cupcakes. The cherry blossom designed treat is available in chocolate or vanilla and topped with vanilla buttercream. The cupcakes are available in-store and for online orders between March 20 and April 13.

Cherry Blossom Pop-Up Bar

For a third year, Drink Company’s springtime-themed pop up bar has returned with plenty of blossoms. This year’s added bonus includes a ramen room where you can dive into everything noodle, surrounded by a ramen installation. Visit the pop-up space now through April 21. Admission is free.

Destination Wedding Bar’s Osaka

In a nod to Osaka’s reputable nightlife, the 14th Street wedding–themed bar is featuring a Japanese installation offering drink cocktails adorned with detailed decor of glowing lanterns, ramen shop signs, and an ample amount of cherry blossom branches. Admission is free now through April 20th.

“In Peak Bloom” exhibit and cocktails at Artechouse

Tour the interactive digital art museum’s cherry blossom–inspired exhibit. This year’s floral galleries are designed by five female artists who brought virtual cherry blossoms to life. Later, check out the museum’s bar for a tasty round-up of blossom cocktails. Admission is $20 per person, and will be available until May 21.

Sherry Blossom Festival at Estadio

Calling all wine-lovers to Estadio’s annual Sherry Blossom Festival to celebrate in Spanish fortified wine. Beginning Wednesday, March 20 guests can order sherry flights, sherry dishes, and additional complimentary porron wine pitchers that will fbe filtering throughout the space. For those 21 and older you can participate in the festivities between March 20th and April 14th.

Smithsonian American Art Museum Cherry Blossom Festival

Join the Smithsonian American Art Museum at their Japanese culture–infused courtyard event.

Offerings will include a collection of traditional Japanese art forms such as taiko drumming and creating tatebanko, or paper dioramas. Bring your own snacks to this cherry blossom block party. The festival is scheduled for March 23 from 11a.m. to 3p.m. Admission is free.

Cherry Blossom Parade

Don’t forget to eat breakfast before this year’s annual cherry blossom parade. The parade will include live music, floats, giant balloons, and performances from the Washington Redskins Cheerleaders. Attendance at the parade is free on Saturday, April 13 from 10a.m. to noon.