Celebrating A Century of Cherry Blossoms

2012 National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade
Photo by Selina Dudley

It has been 100 years since the United States received some 3,000 cherry blossom trees as a gift from Japan celebrating the symbol of international friendship.  The eye-catching cherry blossom trees were placed around the District and ring the Tidal Basin.

On April 14, Constitution Avenue was filled with spectators for the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade. Families, friends and strangers packed the grandstands and sidewalks, and climbed most every other available piece of architecture in order to see the vibrant, creative and entertaining displays.

“Who doesn’t love a parade?” asked Jennifer Adams of Pittsburgh, who attended the parade with a group of friends … Read more.

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Cultural Threads: Cherry Blossom Fashion
Dylan Lauber showed his appreciation for the cherry blossom trees by dressing in a yukata, a traditional Japanese garment worn in the spring and summer months. His attire consisted of a long brown robe that brushed the ground as he walked, a sash around his waist and sandal-like shoes worn with white socks. … Read more.
Pan-Asian Style Meets American Pop | Fashion in Bloom at Cherry Blossom Parade

Behind the Scenes: A Chance Encounter with Marie Osmond
Behind the chaos of the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade were mothers’ tying bows in their dancing daughter’s hair and jittery jump ropers preparing to perform. And then there was Marie Osmond. … Read more.
Meet the Sky Walkers | Cherry Blossom Parade Vendors Ride Tough Times

Crowd Source: People, Places and Faces
An estimated half-million people flanked Constitution Avenue on April 14 to witness the marching bands, celebrities and choral performances. This annual event unites people and traditions from all walks of life, whether foreign or familiar, to the district. … Read more.
Sam and Sam Tourists, Locals Gather to Watch Centennial Celebration

 

Multimedia

More Slideshows: Crowd Scenes |  Military Bands

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