The National Cherry Blossom Festival Is Now Accepting Performer Applications

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is held annually in Washington D. C. to celebrate the Japanese cherry trees that were given to Washington D.C. by Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo City on March 27th, 1912. The trees were a symbolic gift to enhance the friendship between the United States and Japan. And the festival is held annually to try and coincide with the peak blossom times of the cherry trees. The National Cherry Blossom Festival features a parade, fireworks, concerts, and special exhibits all taking their theme from the cherry blossoms. With the 2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival scheduled to run from March 20th, 2025 through April 13th, 2025.

One feature of the National Cherry Blossom Festival is the Tidal Basin Welcome Area which includes performances from 12PM until 6PM during the festival. And the festival is currently accepting applications for performers interested in appearing on the Tidal Basin Welcome Area Stage. First consideration is given to applications received by January 20th, 2025. With the festival only being able to support small groups or individuals and strolling performances. As the stage can only accommodate up to 15 people per performance. Preference is given to performances that incorporate live music, offer a cultural or traditional performance, feature cultural or traditional costuming, and are upbeat and enjoyed by many demographics.

Those interested in applying to be a performer for the Cherry Blossom Festival are encourage to review the stage performance guidelines for the festival and they can fill out the application form online here: 2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival Performers - Tidal Basin Stage Application

Luisa Reyes is an attorney in Tuscaloosa with a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Judson, a master's degree in library science, and a law degree from Samford's Cumberland School of Law. She is also a piano instructor and vocalist.