Spring Break Ideas for Families

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 in 2008 are March 29 to April 13. Saturday March 29 is the kick-off day, and also the National Cherry Blossom Festival Family Day, in National Building Museum: 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 on March 29 is the Smithsonian Kite Festival.

Another highlight is the Parade of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, on April 12 2008: Washington's biggest annual spectator event. 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.