Experience one of the world’s most iconic floral festivals.
The lavender fields of Provence. The tulips of Holland. And the cherry blossoms of Washington, DC. Few other blooms capture the attention and romance of the world. And the harvest begins this spring as the Tidal Basin transforms into the internationally beloved dance of pink and white known as the National Cherry Blossom Festival.
After a few quieter Covid years, the festival is back in full force with an ambitious slate of events, the Petalpalooza fireworks show, the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, and the largest celebration of Japanese culture in the nation. Stay in one of Fairfax County’s more than 100 affordable hotels and access the blooms via Metrorail. That way you’ll be perfectly positioned to enjoy all the regional garden displays that make spring this region’s most breathtaking time of year!
INSIDER TIP: Check the expected peak bloom times before your plan your trip if you want to make sure you’re here when the flowers are at their finest.
PLOT YOUR OWN GARDEN STRATEGY FOR 2023.
Green Spring Gardens features a wooded stream valley with ponds, a naturalistic native plant garden, more than 20 thematic demonstration gardens, a greenhouse, a plant shop, two gift shops, a historic house, and a horticulture reference library. It’s the perfect place to inspire a spectacular garden.
ENJOY “VIRGINIA’S GARDEN.”
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens is a bold, yet intimate, space with 3.5 miles of paved walking trails and 1.25 miles of mulched trails. Here, the birds sing, cherry trees bloom, frogs jump, Koi swim intently and dozens of turtles bask in the mid-day sun in a setting that includes a rare Korean Bell Garden.
VISIT THE OG OF THE GARDEN SET.
The American Horticultural Society’s River Farm is a must-see in Fairfax County. This 25-acre historic site overlooking the Potomac River is packed with formal and naturalistic gardens, woodlands, a meadow, award-winning children’s gardens and views that will take your breath away.
