Washington DC is a top destination for spring break, and for many families, school break coincides with the weeks of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which celebrates the original gift of 3,000 cherry trees from the city of Tokyo, back in 1912. Dates are March 28 to April 12 2009.
A highlight for families is the National Cherry Blossom Festival Family Day, in National Building Museum, on March 28 2009: a free event that showcases Japanese arts, with performances, demonstrations, hands-on activities ( - make your own origami creation, try on Japanese clothes...) Then it's time for the Opening Ceremony, right at the Museum. Also check out the Smithsonian Kite Festival.
In 2009, the Parade of the National Cherry Blossom Festival takes place on Saturday April 4 2009: it's Washington's biggest annual spectator event, and tickets for grandstand seats go on sale in November.
Many hotels offer packages this time of year, and Washington DC is generally an affordable destination. See About.com's Guide for DC, for info on the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade -- including picture gallery-- and many more Cherry Blossom Festival events.
- continue to Spring Break Ideas in the Southeast US
