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And the free event wasn't just diplomacy, there were also performers from tap dancers, puppeteers, JPop singers and traditional drum performers.
WASHINGTON — The National Cherry Blossom Festival was officially up and running in Washington, D.C. Saturday evening as festival organizers, Mayor Muriel Bowser, the Japanese ambassador gathered at the Warner Theatre.
Performers with connections to both the United States and Japan performed at the Downtown theater to honor the two country's partnership and exchange of flowers and friendship. Japanese Ambassador Shigeo Yamada was introduced by DC Secretary Kimberly Bassett.
"I'd like to thank each and every American friend who cherishes these blossoms and joins us in celebrating the friendship between Japan and the United States that these blossoms represent," Ambassador Yamada said on Saturday. "Like the cherry trees, the Japan and U.S. relationship continues to flourish."
The ambassador also announced a special surprise gift to the US for 2026's Cherry Blossom Festival, 250 additional trees donated from Tokyo to honor the United States' 250th birthday.
"I hope those new trees will become as beloved as the original trees presented to Washington, D.C. more than a century ago," Yamada said.
And the free event wasn't just diplomacy, there were also performers from tap dancers, puppeteers, JPop singers and traditional Japanese drumming music.
"The opening ceremony is a dazzling fusion of culture, artistry and tradition -- a tribute to the deep-rooted bond between Japan and the United States," National Cherry Blossom Festival President Diana Mayhew said on Saturday. "We invite everyone to be part of this magical evening as we welcome spring in spectacular fashion."
The opening ceremony ran from 5 to 6:30 p.m., you can watch the full video here.
There are 3,700 cherry trees on the National Mall. The original cherry trees were planted in 1912 as a gift of friendship from Japan.
English (US) ·