March 15 – April 16, 2017 OFFICIAL GUIDE

1.877.44.BLOOM (442.5666) nationalcherryblossomfestival.org

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National Cherry Blossom Festival 3

National Cherry Blossom Festival® Headquarters at Union Station Visit the Festival’s Union Station kiosk for official merchandise and information on all the events and programs.

50 Massachusetts Avenue, NE March 13 – April 19 Monday - Friday 10 AM - 7 PM Saturday 9:30 AM - 7 PM Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM

National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc. Board of Directors

Chair: Richard Bradley Chinyere Hubbard Principal, The Urban Partnership Vice President, Communications & Marketing, Events DC Past Chair: Kristin M. Rohr Brand Ambassador, Dr. Sachiko Kuno Table of Contents Guest Services, Inc. Co-Founder and President, S&R Foundation 3 Welcome Vice Chair: Sue Porter 3 Festival Headquarters Director of Visitor Services, Karyn G. Le Blanc Visit Fairfax Senior Vice President, Welcome! 3 National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc. Stratacomm, LLC Board of Directors Secretary: Barbara Ehrlich A City Bursting with Blooms! Mary O’Connor LoJacono Signature Events Treasurer: Christy L. Toole Senior Consultant, Partner, KPMG LLP Towers Watson We’re delighted to welcome you to the 2017 National Cherry Blossom 4 Opening Ceremony Festival, one of the world’s greatest celebrations of spring! For close to 8 Blossom Kite Festival Lisa Abrams Laurel Lukaszewski Vice President of Government Artist/Owner, White Point Studio a century, the Festival has hosted a city-wide celebration that heralds 12 National Cherry Blossom Parade® Affairs, The Hotel Association of the arrival of the new season and honors Japan’s gift of more than presented by Events DC Washington, DC Chris McGee Senior Client Partner, Ferry 3,000 flowering cherry trees to Washington, DC. 16 Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Jeffery Bank Hay Group Festival presented by Harris Teeter CEO, The Alicart Group This year’s Festival runs from March 15 to April 16, bringing back long- 16 Tidal Basin Welcome Area and Susan E.S. Norton ANA Performance Stage Theresa Belpulsi Principal and Founder, Cultural time favorites and introducing exciting new events. From the waterfront Vice President, Tourism Sales, Connections Consultants Destination DC fireworks celebration and daily entertainment on the ANA Performance Premier Events Todd Payne Stage, to concerts, performances and our signature National Cherry 4 SAAM Cherry Blossom Celebration Tony Cancelosi, K.M. Government Affairs Manager, President and CEO, Columbia Microsoft Blossom Festival Parade® presented by Events DC, you’ll want to take 8 Sakura Matsuri – Lighthouse for the Blind advantage of all the Festival has to offer. Japanese Street Festival Christianne Ricchi 10 Anacostia River Festival Shin Donowaki Chef/Owner, Ristorante i Ricchi VP & General Manager, Keep this guide handy and don’t miss any of the fun! 10 Events DC Cherry Blast! Sumitomo Corp. of Americas Michael Stevens, AICP President, Capitol Riverfront BID 4 Cherry Blossom Radio Pam Galloway-Tabb 6 90th Anniversary of the Senior Vice President, Lauren Vaughan Conferences & Special Services, Secretary of the District of First Cherry Blossom Celebration Newseum Columbia 6 City in Bloom

Tony Gittens David Yao 6 Getting There Executive Director, Filmfest DC Senior Vice President & General 8 Blossoms and Baseball Manager, Council for International Rachel Hartman Cooperation 10 Cherry Picks Director of Interactive Marketing Festival information and Communications, Deborah Ziska 15 Merchandise & Artwork DowntownDC BID Principal and Owner, 877.44BLOOM (877.442.5666) 15 National Cherry Blossom Festival Ziska: Communications & nationalcherryblossomfestival.org Must-Do List Marc Hitzig Collaborations, LLC Executive Director, The Japan- 15 Yayoi Kusama: An Iconic Exhibition American Society of Washington, DC Emerita: Ellie Harvey at the Hirshhorn

Kathy Hollinger Diana Mayhew 16 Youth Art Contest & Community Art President, Restaurant Association President, National Cherry This section was prepared by the Advertising Custom Content Department of The Washington Show, Arise Bazaar Kimono Pop-up Metropolitan Washington Blossom Festival, Inc. Post and did not involve the editorial department of this newspaper. 18 Event Schedule 4 National Cherry Blossom Festival Opening CeremonyA Celebratory Start On , this signature event of the 2017 Saturday, March 25 from 5 to 6:30 PM All tickets have been claimed. Walk ups National Cherry Blossom Festival honors the 105th anniversary of the gift of will be accommodated on a first come first trees from Tokyo to Washington, DC. Presented in partnership with the Japan served basis pending availability. The show Foundation, this annual celebration at the historic Warner Theatre will feature will also be live streamed on . remarks by His Excellency Kenichiro Sasae, Ambassador of Japan and the Honorable Muriel Bowser, Mayor of the District of Columbia, plus spectacular The Opening Ceremony is supported by performances by acclaimed artists from Japan and the . Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Inc., Toshiba, Don’t miss this line-up of extraordinary acts: Toyota, Warner Theatre and the Japan Commerce Association of Washington.

The Shigeyama Kyogen troupe May J. is a multilingual J-pop artist and continues their family legacy of kyogen one of Japan’s most celebrated female performance dating to the 17th century. singers. The acclaimed vocalist and Kyogen is a comic form of traditional popular TV host is also widely known for Japanese theater with more than 600 singing the end roll version of “Let It Go” in years of history. Plays typically feature a the Japanese release of Disney’s “Frozen”, humorous “Everyman” figure and depict reaching No. 8 on the Japan Hot 100. daily life among commoners in feudal society or folktales. Kyogen was named The 6821 Quintet, named for the one of the “Masterpieces of the Oral distance between Washington, DC and and Intangible Heritage of Humanity” Tokyo, was created by the Ryuji Ueno by UNESCO in 2001. Foundation for the National Cherry Blossom Festival as part of the Potomac EL Squad is a world-renowned Music Lab Project. The 2017 group Japanese street dance crew from consists of Mayu Kishima (1st Violin), Japan. They have revolutionized the Eric Silberger (2nd Violin), Meng Wang contemporary dance genre with (Viola), Clancy Newman (Cello) and their signature “Light Dance” – a Mamiko Hirai (Composer/Pianist), and mesmerizing blend of dance, music, will perform the world premiere of a and electroluminescent technology. commissioned piece written by Ms. Hirai. SAAM CHERRY BLOSSOM CELEBRATION A Day of Japanese Culture and Fun for All Ages!

Listen and Love it! New this year! Tune in to 104.7 FM “Cherry Blossom Radio” for key Festival-related information, including events, exclusive interviews, special music, fun facts, giveaways, and more. Stay up to date on traffic, weather, and the bloom watch.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is working closely with the Trust for the National Mall in a renewed On Saturday, March 25 from 11:30 AM to 3 PM, join the Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) and the National Cherry Blossom Festival in a free, family-friendly effort towards stewardship of the cherry trees. This celebration of Japanese culture! Be part of a fun, educational experience featuring new partnership seeks to raise funds for the National Japanese music and dance performances, face painting, cherry blossom-themed crafts, a Mall Cherry Tree Endowment, which focuses on the scavenger hunt, and more! Activities take place in SAAM’s Kogod Courtyard. Find special preservation and protection of the cherry trees that line cherry blossom treats in the Courtyard Café and products in the museum store. the Tidal Basin on the National Mall. Media sponsors include Washington Parent Magazine and 98.7 WMZQ. Find the diapers you love for your little one Available at Your Neighborhood

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Unique Soft Grip Texture Hypoallergenic & Perfume Free 6 National Cherry Blossom Festival 90th Anniversary of DC’s First Getting there Cherry Blossom Celebration Helpful Information Remembering Our Roots Walking, biking, or Metro is best! Save time with 2017 marks 90 years since the first celebratory planting by Mrs. Taft and the wife of the Japanese these convenient public transit options: festival of the gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Tokyo ambassador in 1912. The pageantry also included to Washington, DC. Although more modest in a theatrical presentation of Japanese myths and a Metro to the Tidal Basin scale than the National Cherry Blossom Festival we “Cherry Petal Ballet” danced by area schoolchildren. Take Metrorail to the Smithsonian/National Mall know today, the 1927 “Cherry Blossom Fete” was The America-Japan Society sent a message of Station on the Blue, Orange, or Silver lines; or ride a festive gathering of dignitaries and community appreciation from Tokyo, which was delivered in a 52 Metrobus to Independence Avenue & 14th Street, members commemorating the 1912 arrival of trees public reading. SW. Walk west toward the Washington Monument to and enduring friendship between Japan and the Attracting nearly 10,000 visitors to the Tidal Basin, 15th Street/Raoul Wallenberg Place. Turn left to head United States. this one-day observance of friendship between south along 15th Street to the Tidal Basin. Planned by the National Memorial Foundation, nations planted the seeds for what would become a Pick up a free limited edition National Cherry the day-long celebration of international goodwill lasting springtime legacy in the District. Blossom Festival SmartTrip sleeve at select Metro aimed to welcome cherry blossom season and stations while supplies last. “inaugurate a picturesque tradition in Washington”.* * “Big Cherry Blossom Pageant will be Presented In attendance were former First Ladies Helen Saturday. Hains Point Will Be Setting for Picturesque Bikeshare to the Blooms Taft and Edith Wilson, Secretary of State Frank B. Offering, With Children of Embassies Participating.” Bike rentals are available at over 440 Capital Kellogg, Postmaster General Harry S. New, U.S. Washington Star, April 13, 1927. Bikeshare stations. Stop by any station to pick up a military leaders, representatives from Japanese 24-hour membership for $8, a 3-day pass for $17 or cultural groups, as well as distinguished members Win ANA Airline Tickets to Tokyo! a single trip for just $2. Visit CapitalBikeshare.com. of Washington’s diplomatic community. Children of In celebration of the 90th anniversary of the first embassy officials from Switzerland, the Dominican Festival, share your favorite Festival experiences Bus to the Blossoms Republic, Mexico, Paraguay, and other countries using #BlossomMoments. Tag All Nippon Airways The DC Circulator National Mall route takes you joined a colorful tableau of international flags, (ANA) with your submission on Facebook straight to the blossoms. Rides cost $1 and buses following a musical opening by the U.S. Army Band (@ana.northamerica), (@FlyANA_official) arrive every 10 minutes. Learn more at and Japanese lute and shamisen performers. or (@allnipponairways_official) and DCCirculator.com. Actors and dancers from local schools and you will be entered to win a pair of roundtrip performance groups artfully reenacted the first tree airline tickets to Tokyo courtesy of ANA. Water Shuttle to the Blossoms Travel from Georgetown to the Tidal Basin on a scenic water taxi ride. Tickets must be purchased in CITY IN BLOOM advance at DC-Cruises.com.

Parkmobile See the Region Sparkle in Pink and White! Throughout the Festival, customers can reserve a parking space through Parkmobile at cherryblossom. Over the course of the Festival, shades pmreserve.com, as well as pay online for street of pink blossoms will bloom all around parking close to the Festival using the Parkmobile the city as “City in Bloom” returns to the app. Each time customers use Parkmobile to park National Cherry Blossom Festival. Local in the Washington, DC area, they have the option of businesses and organizations will visually donating to the National Cherry Blossom Festival, unite the city with pink spotlights and using zone 9810 in the app. Parkmobile is the blossom projections lighting up landmark preferred parking vendor of the National Cherry buildings. Watch for cherry blossom Blossom Festival. decals “blooming” on public transit, storefronts, businesses, food trucks, For a full list of public transportation options, airports, and parks. visit nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/go and goDCgo.com. Watch for special blossom illuminations on sites including the Capital Wheel, Brookfield Office properties, Arena Stage, Reagan National and Warner Theatre, Union Market, Hard Rock Dulles International Café, the Willard InterContinental Hotel, Airports are pleased Newseum, Reagan National and Dulles to support International airports, and more. Additional the 2017 National Cherry City In Bloom participants include area Blossom Festival. Your Harris Teeter stores, City Center DC, Canal Journey Begins with Us. Park and Yards Park, the Wilson Building, FlyReagan.com, Forever 21 at Metro Center, and the FlyDulles.com National Zoo. Opens April 8

Reunited after 140 years, three paintings introduce this mysterious artist Inventing Utamaro A Japanese Masterpiece Rediscovered

.si.edu/utamaro #utamaro

Generous support for this exhibition and the Freer|Sackler Japanese art program is provided by 8 National Cherry Blossom Festival Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival Japan – Up Close and Personal! Produced by the Japan-America Society of Washington, DC, the Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival will captivate you with the sights and sounds of Japan on Saturday, April 8, from 10:30 AM to 6 PM. Come see, hear and taste all things Japanese with crafts, activities, food and drink, performances, and cooking demonstrations at the largest one-day celebration of Japanese culture in the United States. Enjoy performances on four stages, browse a variety of Japanese products and items inspired by Japanese design, and let the kids enjoy their very own Children’s Corner!

Don’t miss this community celebration of Japanese culture! Join the festivities in the Yards Park/Capitol Riverfront neighborhood at M Street and Avenue SE, across from the Navy Yard/Ballpark Metro station.

$8 advance ticket (purchased before April 1); $10 after April 1 and at the gate; free admission for children 12 and under. www.sakuramatsuri.org

Blossom Kite Festival Spectacular Fun for Everyone!

Come see soaring kites fill the air onSaturday, April 1 from 10 AM to 4:30 PM on the grounds of CELEBRATING BLOOMS the Washington Monument at 17th Street, NW and AT THE BALL PARK Constitution Avenue. What better way to celebrate spring and friends around the world than with brightly colored kites swirling and dancing against blue skies!

Don’t miss this day-long event featuring kite-making activities, youth kite-flying competitions, flight demonstrations by master kite makers from across the country, local kite club displays, and more! New this year, kite ballet performances will feature Team Island Quad from Victoria, BC, along with special children’s programming. Enjoy a hands-on experience with lessons in kite-flying techniques, or fly your own in specially reserved areas for public kite-flying.

Limited special edition Festival kites will be available for A beloved springtime tradition, the National purchase at the event. Cherry Blossom Festival brings “Blossoms Macy’s is the supporting sponsor of the Blossom and Baseball” to . Watch as the Kite Festival. Media sponsors are Washington Parent Washington Nationals take on the St. Louis Magazine and BIG 100.3. Cardinals on Tuesday, April 11 at 7:05 PM. Wear pink to show your blossom spirit! Purchase Rain date is Sunday, April 2, 12 Noon – 6:30 PM. tickets at nationals.com/tickets. NOW STARRING

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GRAMMY WINNER

PHOTO BY JASON BELL BRANDY April 4–16, 2017 | Opera House TICKETS ON SALE NOW! KENNEDY-CENTER.ORG | (202) 467-4600 Tickets also available at the Box Office. Groups call (202) 416-8400. For all other ticket-related customer service inquiries, call the Advance Sales Box Office at (202) 416-8540.

Theater at the Kennedy Center Major support for Musical Theater Kennedy Center Theater is made possible by at the Kennedy Center is provided by Season Sponsor 10 National Cherry Blossom Festival

Events DC Cherry Blast! Take in the Sights and Sounds of Japan

In celebration of the annual blooming of cherry blossoms, Events DC Cherry Blast! brings the sights, sounds, scents and flavors of Japan to Washington, DC. Join us Friday, April 14 from 7 PM to 12 midnight as Dock 5 at Union Market is transformed into a busy Tokyo streetscape to kick off the finale weekend of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Experiences include: • Night Market – a hustling and bustling communal marketplace lined with an array of food vendors and artisan crafts, curated by acclaimed Chef Erik Bruner-Yang of Maketto • Music Stage – vibe to the pulsating sounds of live artists and DJs performing all night long • Interactive Art Showcase – a spectacular exhibit of interactive works created by DC-based artists, inspired by Japanese culture and the prestige of the cherry blossoms • VIP Lounge – an exclusive private lounge featuring an open bar with special cocktail pairings and curated Tokyo street food (Space is limited; VIP tickets required)

Anacostia River Festival Cherry Picks Connecting with Nature and Community DC Dining with a Seasonal Flair Cherry Picks showcases Washington, DC’s vibrant restaurant scene with participating serving creative, seasonally inspired menus throughout the Festival. Cherry Picks is produced in partnership with Restaurant Association Metropolitan Washington. Participating restaurants include:

1789 Restaurant • Acqua Al 2 • Ari’s Diner • Atlas Brew Works • B Too • Joe’s • Bantam King • Bar DuPont • Belga Café • Bistro Bis • Brabo • California Tortilla • Carmine’s • Charlie Palmer Steak • Chilcano • Circa (Clarendon) • Circa (Dupont) Circa (Foggy Bottom) • Cities Restaurant & Lounge Cuba Libre Restaurant & Rum Bar • Cure Bar & Bistro • Daikaya • DBGB DC • Denson Liquor Bar • Dock FC • Duke’s Counter • Duke’s Grocery Estadio • Farmers and Distillers • Farmers Fishers Bakers • Fig & Olive Founding Farmers (DC) • Founding Farmers (MoCo) Founding Farmers (Tyson’s) • Brown’s • Ghibellina • Glen’s Garden Presented by the 11th Street Bridge Park and the Market (DuPont) • Good Stuff Eatery • Haikan • Harold Black • ICI Urban Bistro National Park Service • J. Paul’s Dining Saloon (Georgetown) • Jaleo (Bethesda) Jaleo (Crystal City) • Jaleo (Downtown) • KAZ Sushi Bistro • Kellari • La Puerta Verde • Ledo’s Pizza • Mastro’s Steakhouse • Matchbox • Neyla Mediterranean Bistro • Occidental On Sunday, April 9 from 1 to 5 PM, don’t miss this third annual celebration of local culture and natural splendor! This Grill & Seafood • Ocean Prime • The Oceanaire Seafood Room • Old Glory year’s Anacostia River Festival highlights biking in the District BBQ • Oyamel • Paolo’s Ristorante (Georgetown) • Petworth Citizen & Reading with special activities for all ages – including trail rides, crafts, Room • Quarter + Glory • Rocklands Barbeque & Grilling Co. • Room 11 free tune-ups and safety tips, a bike parade, and more! Explore RPM Italian • Ruth’s Chris Steak House • Slim’s Diner • Sotto • Station Kitchen the beauty and history of the Anacostia River with canoe rides, • Texas de Brazil • The Hamilton • The Tavern at the Henley Park Hotel • The fishing workshops, wildlife demos, and local arts exhibitions. Urban Winery • Tortino Restaurant • We the Pizza • Wildfire Woodward Table • Zaytinya presented by

Saturday, April 8, 2017 nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/parade 10 AM - 12 Noon Line of March Inside!

Presented by Parade Supporting Sponsor Parade Segment Sponsors Parade Media Partners

Your Journey Begins With Us. 12 National Cherry Blossom Festival National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade® Presented by Events DC PHOTO COURTESY RON ENGLE PHOTO COURTESY

Don’t miss this long-standing Washington LINE OF MARCH United States Park Police Platoon tradition. The Parade marches down Constitution Mounted Horse Patrol “Celebrate” Opening United States Marine Corps Avenue between 7th and 17th Streets featuring Performance featuring 2017 Pink Care Bear Balloon Platoon floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands Sing Into Spring Winners, Carrie Ann Inaba from “Dancing Joint Staff Honor Guard and performances from Drew Lachey, Jo Dee KHA, Roquois and ShaMain with the Stars” Messina, DJ Kool, Brian Justin Crum and more! and Parade Cast sponsored by Marching The Parade is hosted by ABC7/WJLA’s Alison Events DC 2017 Poster Float sponsored by Platoon MGM National Harbor featuring Starling and Jonathan Elias, with a special Opening Performance featuring Platoon Blu Cantrell and Power Surge CitySights DC Double Decker appearance by Carrie Ann Inaba. Good Morning Dancers— “Hit ‘Em Up Style” United States Coast Guard America’s Rob Marciano and ABC7/WJLA’s Bus Platoon Foothill High School Band – Michelle Marsh return as on-the-street reporters Metropolitan Police Department California 3rd United States Infantry Old while Loo Katz and Chilli Amar return as West Metropolitan Police Department Guard Fife & Drum Corps Limitless Dancing Warriorettes- End announcers. Grandstand tickets are available Motorcycle Team Good Morning Washington for sale at nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/ Metropolitan Police Department Coffee Mug Balloon sponsored The All American Brigade from parade. This event is presented by Events DC Honor Guard by ABC7/WJLA-TV & Western Alamance High School– and supported by All Nippon Airways (ANA). NewsChannel 8 The Dogwood Trail Court Segment sponsors include DowntownDC BID ABC7 MobileTrak7 Vehicle and Reagan National and Dulles International Capitol Movement and Ring THE 2017 Sing Into Spring Winner DC Emancipation Day Float Airports. The official vehicle sponsor is DARCARS WORLD — Japan & Washington KHA sponsored by The D.C. Washington Informer Automotive Group and media sponsors are Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes ABC7/WJLA, News Channel 8, 97.1 WASH-FM United States Park Police Military District of Washington Norton, District of Columbia Delegate to the U.S. House of and The Washington Informer. Motorcycle Unit Units Representatives United States Park Police Honor Commander of Troops and Joint Purchase tickets today! Guard Staff Frank W. Ballou High School “Majestic” Marching Knights — Limited grandstand seating available. Chief of Police, Robert MacLean The Band Washington, DC, sponsored by Visit nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/parade and the United States Park Police Pershing’s Own Events DC for more information. United States Army Marching National Cherry Blossom Festival 13

Events DC float presents ANA: Love the Journey Float Potomac Classic Thunderbird DJ Kool - “Let Me Clear My featuring Brian Justin Crum Club Convertibles Throat” with The and The Washington Wizard 1964 Plymouth Sport Fury High School for Creative Girls—“Show Me Love” Convertible Owner: Jack and and Performing Arts (CAPA) FLY-ANA Jet Balloon Cheryl Gallagher Dancers Tech’s Regimental 1963 Buick Wildcat The MGM Lion Balloon Band, The Highty-Tighties– Convertible, 1964 Cadillac presented by MGM National Virginia Eldorado Convertible and Harbor 2017 Sing Into Spring Winner 1976 Cadillac Eldorado Woodland High School Stampede of Love – North Sing Into Spring Vocal ShaMain sponsored by The Convertible Owner: Randy Wildcat Marching Band– Carolina Competition Group Winners, Washington Informer Denchfield Georgia sponsored by CSI Treble in Paradise A Cappella Rockville Ryukyu Taiko, 1964 Convertible Turquoise Printing & Graphics Chin Daiko, Anaguma Eisa, Group— “Mercy,” sponsored C.V. Russell Jr. Ambassador by The Newseum Marching Band—Virginia Mercury Comet Owner: Bill UniStars Unicycling and The Okinawan Taiko Bonstra Showtroupe Drummers of Wisconsin Miss Rodeo Virginia Program The Washington Redskins Cheerleaders 1973 Oldsmobile Delta 88 Edgewater Eagle Band– Goodwill Ambassadors Float DOMO Balloon sponsored by convertible and 2007 Ford Florida with special performance NHK WORLD TV 2017 Savvy Mustang Cobra Convertible Shields Almas Shrine Klowns and Wauwatosa East High School Owner: K Beverly Lake Anna Firetruck Red Raider Marching Band– Miss District of Columbia Cruisers Car Club Wisconsin 2016 Cierra Jackson & Miss PowerTaps Cloggers Blazen Divaz – Idaho Maryland 2016 Hannah 2017 National Cherry Blossom Drum Float with Tamagawa Brewer Festival® Parade Produced by the National Cherry Blossom University Dance and Taiko 2017 Sing Into Spring Winner Mr. Potato Head Balloon Festival in association with JM Best Group— Japan, Sponsored Roquois sponsored by The Entertainment, Inc. sponsored by ABC7/WJLA-TV by Japan National Tourism Washington Informer Producer and Director JOHN M. BEST & NewsChannel 8 Coordinating Producer TODD MARCOCCI Organization (JNTO) Washington Nationals Racing UNDER THE SUN Springtime Float sponsored His Excellency & Mrs. President Teddy Roosevelt PRODUCTIONS, INC. by DARCARS Automotive Associate Producer AMY WALP Kenichiro Sasae, The and The NatMobile Producer SARAH GRIFFITH Group featuring Drew Lachey Ambassador of Japan Production Managers BRENDA GOLDSMITH Miss District of Columbia’s and the Copeland Mills ARIN DALE Production Coordinator BRANDON STELLATO National Conference of State Outstanding Teen 2016 Nilah Dancers — “Because of You” Musical Director JONATHAN BARR Societies’ (NCSS) Princesses Pettus & ’s Associate Director SUSAN KOPENSKY Outstanding Teen 2016 Lassiter High School Script Coordinator RACHEL KAGAN NCSS Queen’s Float—Japan Marching Trojan Band - Parade Supervisors Miguel BERRIOS Allison LaForce ricke stimmel Sakura Queen, Yuki Shimono, Georgia sponsored by JEFF CALL 2017 Japan Cherry Blossom “Hoosiers Bus” NHK WORLD TV and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries ARIS POULOUS broadcast partner Maryland Jennifer Birge Princess, U.S. Cherry Blossom Batalá Washington sponsored America Inc. Larry MADISON Queen Runner Up, 2017 Miss Public Television Float LARRY HARVEY by El Tiempo Latino Bunch of Blossom Balloons PAT HARVEY Congeniality sponsored by MICHAEL HARROD Performance with the Junior sponsored by Japan National Reagan National/ Dulles Japanese Lantern Balloons Mass Groups CHRIS CROMWELL Exile Group Tourism Organization (JNTO) Coordination JAMIE HUGHES International Airports sponsored by Microsoft LEE CROMWELL Very Hungry Caterpillar Parade Youth Choir The National Park Service MADELYN LAUVER Russellville High School Balloon sponsored by the Costume Designer TINA HEINZE performance—“Better When Recycling Team TINA’S COSTUMES Marching Hundred– Alabama DowntownDC Business Costume Supervisor ANGELA BOWLES I’m Dancin” sponsored by The Finale Performance “Love Lead Choreographers LADEVA DAVIS City in Bloom Float Improvement District University of the District of Can Move Mountains” with ROBBIE MACKEY sponsored by Harris TODD MARCOCCI Columbia Gainesville High School Tamika Patton and Parade Television Facilities WPVI TV – Philadelphia Teeter featuring Mari with Hurricane Marching Band– TERRY BELFORD National Park Service Tree Cast Power Surge Dancers — Florida MARC BRESS Maintenance Truck with Crew HERB KIRCHER “Everybody’s Dancing” Groups in Opening and Audio Mixer JASON GRIFFITH and Paddles the Beaver Spring Is Alive Float Finale Performances: Still Photographer RON ENGLE Very Cherry Blossom Balloons sponsored by Carmine’s Parade Operations COURTNEY BEARD National Park Service float Charlenes School of Dance, CHRIS D’ARCY sponsored by Events DC featuring Miss USA 2016, with Superintendent Gay Cheering/Capitol Movement JENNIFER DEEMS Deshauna Barber JOE ESPOSITO Pennsbury High School Vietzke and the National Mall Cheerleaders, Copeland CORY RYAN FRANK “The Long Orange Line”– The Philadelphia High School Mills Dancers, Dogwood Trail VICTOR HOLLADAY and Memorial Parks Rangers JACQUELINE LORO sponsored by and Volunteers for Creative and Performing Court, Perna Dance Center, CHRIS MEHRHOLZ Reagan National / Dulles Arts (CAPA) Dancers— “FAME” The Philadelphia High School PAUL MAIDAS International Airports Jo Dee Messina with CAPA for Creative and Performing ADAM NAROFF Central Farm Market 1938 MATTHEW REIPRICH Dancers— “Take It” Arts (CAPA) Dancers, P.O.M. ROCCO RICHARDSON George Washington Chapter Chevy Pick-up Truck DANIEL PAYNE of the Model A Ford Club of Downtown Ambassadors Squad, Power Surge Dancers, KELLY SWEENEY sponsored by the P.O.M. Squad - Maryland West Chester University GARY ULRICH America Choreographers DIANNE COPELAND DowntownDC Business All Star Dancers -“Dancin’ on All Star Color Guard, West ADCOCK Free State Clown Alley KELLY WHEELER Improvement District the Avenue/ Dancin’ in the Chester University All Star Special Performance Flags TODD MARCOCCI Gotta Swing Lindy Hoppers Streets,” sponsored by The LADEVA DAVIS HEDY PERNA Pajanimals Balloon sponsored University of the District of Vintage Vehicles provided by: Chartiers Valley Showband– LATASHA CASEY by Express, a publication of Columbia JOANNE MCBRIDE Pennsylvania Central Virginia Mustang Club JOANN BROADUS Still Hot to Trot– Virginia 14 National Cherry Blossom Festival

2017 National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade® Sponsors

Presenting Sponsor SEGMENT SPONSORS

PARADE SPONSORS

Carmine’s • CitySights DC • CSI Printing & Graphics • Japan National Tourism Organization • Johnson’s Florist and Garden Centers • Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc. • Newseum • Omega Recording Studios • University of the District of Columbia • The Washington Informer National Cherry Blossom Festival 15 Yayoi Kusama: An Iconic Exhibition at the Hirshhorn

The 2017 National Cherry Blossom Yayoi Kusama as she works on her Festival is honored to coincide with newest art and reacts to the world the debut of this unprecedented around her. The film explores the art experience. Don’t miss this rare thinking and creative process behind opportunity to explore the talents her Infinity Mirror Rooms. of legendary Japanese artist, Sunday, March 26, 3 PM Yayoi Kusama, whose whimsical, Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture kaleidoscopic creations are currently Garden, Independence Avenue at on view at the Smithsonian’s Hirshhorn 7th Street, SW Museum. M L’Enfant Plaza or Smithsonian FREE See unique and extraordinary works never before shown in the U.S., and Friday Gallery Talk: take an unforgettable sensory journey Mika Yoshitake on Kusama’s through the highly anticipated Infinity Pumpkin Mirror Room exhibit. Join Associate Curator Mika Yoshitake as she discusses Kusama’s monumental Learn more about the artist and her Pumpkin, which made its U.S. debut on 65-year career in these signature the Hirshhorn Plaza in November 2016. programs: Friday, April 14, 12:30 PM Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Film Screening: Garden, Independence Avenue at Nearly Equal Yayoi Kusama: 7th Street, SW I Adore Myself (2008) M L’Enfant Plaza or Smithsonian This documentary follows the artist FREE

MERCHANDISE AND ARTWORK National Cherry Blossom Festival Festival Favorites Plus Must-Do List Fabulous New Arrivals! • Wake up early to experience the Tidal Basin at Now’s your chance to get your National Cherry sunrise Blossom Festival official merchandise! Visit the tents • Fly a kite on the National Mall at the Festival Welcome Area near the paddle boats at • Attend the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade® the Tidal Basin (3/15 – 4/2), at Festival Headquarters • Eat at a “Cherry Picks” restaurant at Union Station (3/13 – 4/19) and at select Festival • Capture a photo of the cherry blossoms at peak events to find apparel, tote bags, key chains, books, and more. For an expanded line of products, including bloom the Festival’s 2017 official poster by acclaimed local • Watch the fireworks at the Southwest Waterfront artist Lawrence “Naturel” Atoique, visit ncbfstore.org. Fireworks Festival Naturel, Official Artist of the 2017 • Dance to live music at the ANA Performance Stage National Cherry Blossom Festival: • Rent a paddle boat at the Tidal Basin • Celebrate the 105th anniversary of the gift of trees at A native of nearby Landover, Maryland, Naturel produces sharp, futuristic artwork that has quickly emerged in the Opening Ceremony today’s contemporary art scene. Considered an influencer • Pick up a gift or souvenir at the Festival’s with a massive social media following, Naturel has Merchandise Headquarters at Union Station attracted celebrity clients such as Swizz Beatz, Rihanna, • Explore one of the beautiful gardens in Washington, Spike Lee, Paul Rosenberg and LeBron James, among DC and beyond others. Working directly with Jay-Z on iconic apparel designs, he has also served as a creative collaborator for • Take in a free concert or performance global campaigns. This year, Naturel’s artwork is featured • Visit an art exhibit on the Festival’s official poster – an annual collector’s item – as well as on various Festival merchandise. 16 National Cherry Blossom Festival Youth Art Contest & Community Art Show Tidal Basin Welcome Area and ANA The Art of Kimono Presented with the DC Arts 8th Street, NW, and is open Performance Stage & Humanities Education Tuesday – Friday from 12 Collaborative, this Noon to 4 PM. On Friday, Something for Everyone, Every Day! community art show features March 24, it will be open to inspiring works by DC public public from 4 to 6 PM. From Wednesday, March 15 – Sunday, April 2, enjoy free and charter school students. live performances at the ANA Performance Stage at the Tidal Kimono Exhibit – See a small Basin Welcome Area. Presented with the National Park Service, This year’s contest theme exhibit of rare and unusual the Welcome Area is open from 10 AM – 7 PM as your source focuses on kimono and kimono with full descriptions. for Festival information and an array of fun activities in the how their fabric’s color and Noted kimono expert and Information Tent. pattern show the wearer’s author Paul MacLardy will social status, personal be on hand to talk about the Prepare to be dazzled by a wide variety of cross-cultural identity and cultural kimono during the first three entertainment at the ANA Performance Stage from 12 Noon to awareness. Students will be days of the event. 6 PM daily. Performances feature a dynamic mix of American, challenged to use symbols Japanese, and other international artists celebrating a lasting and icons in the framework Kimono Trunk Sale Fundraiser friendship symbolized by the gift of flowering cherry trees of a kimono pattern to View hundreds of antique and from Tokyo to Washington, DC. Media sponsor is 94.7 Fresh express what they look vintage silk kimono, cotton FM. Special performance days will feature: BloomBars Day forward to when spring yukata and Japanese gifts and supported by Jason Cohen/Keller Williams Real Estate (3/22), arrives and cherry blossoms are in bloom. jewelry available for purchase. Friday, March Passport DC Preview Day with Cultural Tourism DC (3/23), Sing 24 from 4 to 6 PM; Saturday, March 25 from Into Spring Finalists (3/25) and India Day (4/1). View the top submissions from these 10 AM to 4 PM; and Sunday, March 26 from talented young artists at the Pepco Edison 10 AM to 2 PM. All proceeds to benefit the Place Gallery. The Gallery is located at 702 National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Media sponsors include El Zol 107.9 and WPGC 95.5. Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival Presented by Harris Teeter Spectacular Fun for Everyone! Experience a day and night of sensational sights! On Saturday, April 15 from 2 to 9:30 PM, the 2017 Festival draws to a close with riverfront festivities for the whole family.

2 – 9:30 PM at District Wharf Enjoy live music, food trucks, a beer and cider garden and all-ages fun, including photo booths, corn hole, bracelet making and koi windsock crafts, calligraphy, and more! 6 – 9 PM at Titanic Memorial in Southwest $20 off your bill of $100 or more before 5PM, valid until April 10. Waterfront Park At 8:30 PM, watch a fireworks spectacular Show this ad to redeem. Don’t miss this prelude to a dazzling light up the night! For best views, claim a fireworks display! Take part in an evening spot in Waterfront Park, closest to the Titanic of live music and family-friendly activities – Memorial. Additional vantage points are including glow-in-the-dark crafts! located along the waterfront or at Hains Point. Share in our commitment to the region and be a vital source of funding for the National Cherry Blossom Festival, a The Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival is 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. Your support will not presented by Harris Teeter and Gain, Pantene, only help sustain the Festival’s events and experiences to Pampers, and Febreze. Event supporting remain primarily free to the public, but support the important sponsor is District Wharf. Additional stewardship effort toward the preservation and protection of supporters include Strongbow, Kirin, Odyssey the cherry trees (10% of your donation will go directly to the and Spirit Cruises, The Color Run, and Cherry Tree Endowment). Washington Waterfront Association. Event Visit nationalcherryblossomfestival.org to donate today. media sponsors are HOT 99.5 and WETA-TV. SUMMER 2017 TICKETS ON SALE MARCH 18!

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2017 Festival Event Schedule

Art in the Palm of your Hand: Netsuke in Oscar-winning filmmaker Steven Okazaki Discover Japanese culture with origami, Philharmonic blend music with nature in Tyson’s Corner Center. Enjoy free gifts, Japanese Culture FREE explores the career of Toshiro Mifune, a true kimono dress-up, karate demos, tiara throughout the Tidal Basin. Wander and Japanese craft demonstrations and much THURS, 3/16 6:30 – 8 PM giant of world cinema who collaborated with making with former Cherry Blossom enjoy music that seamlessly fits the natural more! Discussion and demo of the traditional art director Akira Kurosawa during the Golden princesses, the Japan-America Society of environment of each location. Tysons Corner Center, of netsuke – sculptural objects used to Age of Japanese film. Washington, DC’s “Japan-In-A-Suitcase” Tidal Basin, 1501 Maine Avenue, SW 1961 Chain Bridge Road McLean, VA carry men’s belongings, and enviable status Japan Information & Culture Center, program, and more! M Smithsonian M Tysons Corner symbols in ancient Japan. 1150 18th Street, NW Suite 100 Library of Congress, Freer|Sackler Gallery of Art, M Farragut North or Farragut West 101 Independence Avenue, SE Southwest Chamber Players Concert The Willard Rosé Romp TICKETS 1050 Independence Avenue, SW M Capitol South FREE SAT, 4/1 1 – 5 PM M Smithsonian Friday Gallery Talk: Orchid Exhibit FRI, 3/31 7 PM The Willard Hotel and Chateau D’Esclans Installation FREE SAAM Cherry Blossom Celebration Enjoy classical chamber music including winery – France’s most prominent Rosé Pink Tie Party Fundraiser presented FRI, 3/24 12:30 PM presented by the Smithsonian American Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms and more wine house – present a daytime wine social by All Nippon Airways (ANA) TICKETS Experts share the making of Orchids: A Art Museum FREE celebrating the Southwest Chamber Players’ with Executive Chef food stations featuring THURS, 3/16 7 – 11 PM Moment at the Hirshhorn, the museum’s SAT, 3/25 11:30 AM – 3 PM 20th season. The gala highlights the creations from InterContinental Hotel chefs Hosted by Trade Center Management 22nd annual orchid exhibition presented by Visit the Kogod Courtyard for Japanese reopening of St. Augustine’s church after two worldwide. Must be 21 or over. Associates (TCMA)/Ronald Reagan Building Smithsonian Gardens and the U.S. Botanic music and performances, face painting, years of construction. The Willard InterContinental Hotel, Wear your finest “Pink Tie” cocktail attire and Garden. Hundreds of exotic orchids are cherry blossom-themed crafts, a scavenger St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church, 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW enjoy an evening of delicious spring-inspired displayed in a colorful installation featuring hunt, activities with Smithsonian’s 555 Water Street, SW M Metro Center cuisine and cocktails from local restaurants, time-lapse videos of blossoming flowers. Freer|Sackler Asian art museums, and more! M Waterfront a silent auction spectacular, engaging Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Smithsonian American Art Museum, Japanese Plum Wine Tasting TICKETS experiences, music, dancing and more. Garden, Independence Avenue at 8th and F Streets, NW 19th Annual National Cherry Blossom SAT, 4/1 4:30 – 6 PM Must be 21 or over. 7th Street, SW M Gallery Place–Chinatown Freedom Walk FREE Explore Japan’s other springtime blossom Ronald Reagan Building and M L’Enfant Plaza or Smithsonian SAT, 4/1 9 AM – 12 Noon – the ume or plum blossom. Learn its International Trade Center, Film Screening: “Yojimbo” FREE Take part in a short, non-competitive walk importance as a cultural symbol and culinary 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW May J. Special Performance FREE SAT, 3/25 2 PM and program honoring the Japanese- ingredient, and how to distinguish it from the M Federal Triangle FRI, 3/24 6 PM Toshiro Mifune stars in Akira Kurosawa’s American spirit of patriotism and cherry blossom. Sample plum liqueurs and A special pop-up performance by May J., visually stunning and darkly comic “Yojimbo”. perseverance during World War II. enjoy sweet and savory accompaniments. An Evening of Kyogen: Shigeyama one of the most celebrated female singers This exhilarating genre-twister remains one National Japanese American Memorial Must be 21 or over. Kyogen Troupe FREE in Japan. This J-pop artist is best known for of the most influential and entertaining films Foundation, Louisiana Avenue, Green Spring Gardens, TUES, 3/21 8 PM singing the end roll version of “Let It Go” in of all time. New Jersey Avenue & D Street, NW 4603 Green Spring Road, Alexandria, VA Enjoy a centuries-old Japanese theater the Japanese release of Disney’s “Frozen.” Freer Sackler Gallery of Art, M Union Station tradition. This troupe performs brief comic John F. Kennedy Center for the 1050 Independence Avenue, SW Duo YUMENO Performance FREE plays that often serve as interludes between Performing Arts, Millennium Stage, M Smithsonian Blossom Kite Festival FREE SAT, 4/1 6 – 7 PM Noh dramas. 2700 F Street, NW SAT, 4/1 10 AM – 4:30 PM -based koto / shamisen player Library of Congress, M Foggy Bottom–GWU Opening Ceremony co-presented Join this day-long event featuring and singer Yoko Reikano Kimura and cellist Coolidge Auditorium, with the Japan Foundation kite-making activities, youth kite-flying Hikaru Tamaki create a fusion inspired by 101 Independence Avenue, SE The 6821 Quintet at Evermay FREE (advanced ticketing required) competitions, flight demos by master kite tradition, but with a modern sensibility. M Capitol South Georgetown TICKETS SAT, 3/25 5 – 6:30 PM makers, an open area for public flying, Join them to explore the dialogue between FRI, 3/24 7 – 9 PM Watch world-renowned performers welcome and more. classical Japanese and western music. Art at the Center presented by Events This classical music ensemble was specially spring to Washington, DC and celebrate Washington Monument Grounds, John F. Kennedy Center for the DC FREE assembled for the Festival by the Ryuji Ueno the 105th anniversary of the gift of trees Constitution Avenue & 17th Street, NW Performing Arts, Millennium Stage, WED, 3/22 6:30 PM Foundation. Enjoy cocktails followed by a from Japan to the U.S. Enjoy traditional and M Smithsonian 2700 F Street, NW Join a curator-led public art tour featuring chamber-style performance at the historic modern performances by May J., EL Squad, M Foggy Bottom–GWU Washingtonian and internationally Evermay estate. Shigeyama Kyogen and The 6821 Quintet. recognized artists. Evermay Georgetown, Warner Theatre, 513 13th Street, NW Credit Union Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Walter E. Washington Convention 1623 28th Street, NW M Metro Center Run and 5k Run-Walk FREE Center, 801 Mt. Vernon Place, NW M Dupont Circle or Foggy Bottom–GWU SUN, 4/2 7:30 – 11 AM M Mt. Vernon Square–7th St– EL Squad Performance TICKETS World-class runners and 15,000 running Convention Center EL Squad Public Hip Hop Workshop SUN, 3/26 6:30 – 8 PM enthusiasts tour the cherry blossoms in the FREE The Japan Information & Culture Center, 45th annual “Runner’s Rite of Spring®” in An Evening of Kyogen: Shigeyama FRI, 3/24 8 – 10 PM Embassy of Japan and Joy of Motion the Nation’s Capital. Closed to entrants, open Kyogen Troupe FREE Learn from renowned Japanese street dance co-present EL Squad, a revolutionary street to spectators. THURS, 3/23 1 PM crew, EL Squad, as they teach their signature dance team from Japan. This pop-up Washington Monument Grounds, Enjoy a rich theater tradition spanning more “Light Dance” – a mesmerizing blend performance features “Light Dance,” a 15th Street & Constitution Avenue, NW than 500 years. This troupe performs brief of dance, music and electroluminescent blend of dance, music, and wearable M Smithsonian comic plays that often serve as interludes technology – in this open-to-the-public electroluminescent technology. between Noh dramas. workshop. Kreeger Theatre at Arena Stage, Taste of Japan at Cherry Blossom Time Freer|Sackler Gallery of Art, The Jack Guidone Theater at Joy 1101 6th Street, SW FREE 1050 Independence Avenue, SW of Motion Dance Center Friendship M Waterfront SUN, 4/2 11 AM – 12:30 PM & M Smithsonian Heights, 5207 Wisconsin Avenue, NW National Cherry Blossom Day at the 1 – 2:30 PM M Friendship Heights Shift Festival: Boulder Philharmonic Fairfax County Visitor Center FREE Sample green teas and sweets, make your “Mifune: The Last Samurai” Film Pop-Up Performance FREE SAT, 4/1 1 – 3 PM own painted fans, view Japanese artifacts, Screening FREE Japanese Culture Day FREE WED, 3/29 10 AM – 12 Noon Fairfax County, Virginia celebrates the and learn about 19th century Japanese/ THURS, 3/23 6:30 PM SAT, 3/25 10 AM – 3 PM Small chamber groups from the Boulder Festival at its Visitor Information Center American ties.

Signature event Premier event 2017 Cherry Blossom Washington Post Express 95x105-F1.pdf 1 3/3/17 4:11 PM

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MARCH 15 – APRIL 16, 2017 20 National Cherry Blossom Festival

FREE along parade route (tickets Japanese-American drumming groups. “Field” Trip: Drinks and Bites on a required for grandstand seating) Explore artistic traditions with high-energy Rooftop Farm TICKETS SAT, 4/8 10 AM – 12 Noon rhythm and movement, and try taiko for TUES, 4/11 5 – 7:30 PM This time-honored DC tradition yourself! Enjoy farm-to-table dining and iconic views features marching bands, costumed Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, of the Nation’s Capital. Each bite features characters, giant balloons, elaborate Dekelboum Concert Hall, produce grown just steps away in this floats, and much more! Featuring live 8270 Alumni Drive, College Park, MD urban oasis of a rooftop farm. Must be 21 performances from Drew Lachey, Jo Dee M College Park–U of MD or over. Messina, DJ Kool, Brian Justin Crum, 55 M Street, SE and more. Buy grandstand tickets at Moonlight Revelry: A Rakugo M Navy Yard–Ballpark nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/parade Performance FREE Constitution Avenue, SUN, 4/9 12 Noon – 2 PM Blossoms & Baseball with the between 7th and 17th Streets, NW A performance of Rakugo – a traditional Washington Nationals TICKETS M Federal Triangle or Archives–Navy Japanese form of storytelling – marks the TUES, 4/11 7:05 PM Mem’l–Penn Quarter opening of the Inventing Utamaro exhibition. A beloved springtime tradition, the Actor Katsura Sunshine brings an 18th National Cherry Blossom Festival returns Ikebana Flower Arranging Workshop century artistic work to life by revealing its to Nationals Park this year with “Blossoms FREE hidden stories. and Baseball.” SAT, 4/8 10 – 11:30 AM Freer|Sackler Gallery of Art, Nationals Park, Visit beautiful Green Spring Gardens to 1050 Independence Avenue, SW 1500 South Capitol Street, SE Sully Historic Site, Tamagawa University Taiko Drumming learn about Ikebana, the Japanese art M Smithsonian M Navy Yard–Ballpark 3650 Historic Sully Way, Chantilly, VA and Dance Troupe FREE of flower arranging. With the help of THURS, 4/6 6 – 7 PM an instructor, make an arrangement of Anacostia River Festival Presented Events DC Cherry Blast! National Greenscape Corridor Bike Thundering taiko drumming meets your own. by 11th Street Bridge Park, National TICKETS Ride FREE traditional Japanese dance in a special Green Spring Gardens, Park Service, and the National Cherry FRI, 4/14 7 PM – Midnight SUN, 4/2 11AM – 4PM performance. 4603 Green Spring Road, Blossom Festival FREE Dock 5 at Union Market is transformed Join this 11-mile bike ride through John F. Kennedy Center for the Alexandria, VA SUN, 4/9 1 – 5 PM into a busy streetscape depicting Japan’s downtown DC, exploring the rich history of Performing Arts, Millennium Stage, Celebrate the Anacostia River and explore dynamic culture and ambiance. Experience three landmark green spaces within our 2700 F Street, NW Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street its surrounding parks and communities a Night Market curated by acclaimed nation’s capital. Presented with the U.S. M Foggy Bottom–GWU Festival presented by The Japan- National Arboretum. America Society of Washington, DC BicycleSPACE, 2424 18th Street, NW National Japan Bowl – Championship TICKETS M Woodley Park–Zoo Rounds FREE SAT, 4/8 10:30 AM – 6 PM FRI, 4/7 2 – 5 PM The largest one-day celebration of Official Japanese Stone Lantern In a quiz-show format, teams of high school Japanese culture in the U.S. returns to the Lighting Ceremony FREE students from across the nation are tested Capitol Riverfront neighborhood, offering SUN, 4/2 3 – 4:30 PM Presented by on their knowledge of Japanese language four stages and more than 80 cultural the National Park Service & National and culture in this 25th annual competition. groups, food booths and arts vendors. Conference of State Societies (NCSS) National 4-H Youth Conference Center, M Street and New Jersey Avenue, SE The official lighting of the Japanese Stone 7100 Connecticut Avenue, M Navy Yard–Ballpark Lantern at the Tidal Basin, a gift from Japan Chevy Chase, MD to the United States in 1954. M Bethesda Landscape and Nature’s Significance Tidal Basin, Independence Avenue & at the Phillips Collection TICKETS 17th Street, SW National Conference of State Societies SAT, 4/8 12 Noon – 1 PM M Smithsonian Cherry Blossom Grand Ball TICKETS Tour world-class works from the Phillips FRI, 4/7 6:30 PM – Midnight Collection and explore nature’s significance National Conference of State Societies A premier black-tie affair with sushi, in French and American modern art. (NCSS) Cherry Blossom Princess cocktails, dinner and dancing to See works by Renoir, Rothko, Bonnard, Celebration of the States TICKETS introduce the 2017 Cherry Blossom O’Keeffe, van Gogh and Diebenkorn. MON, 4/3 6 – 8 PM Princesses and crown the 2017 U.S. The Phillips Collection, with crafts, fishing workshops, kayaking Chef Erik Bruner-Yang, an interactive arts This evening reception from NCSS and Cherry Blossom Queen. 1600 21st Street, NW and canoeing, drum circles, trail rides, live showcase, eSports Lounge, and more. its international partners introduces the Marriott Gateway, Crystal City, M Dupont Circle music, a bike parade, and other activities Dock 5 at Union Market, 2017 U.S. and International NCSS Cherry 1700 Jefferson Davis Highway, for all ages. 1309 5th Street, NE Blossom Princesses. Each princess Arlington, VA Family Afternoon: Design with Nature Anacostia Park, Anacostia Drive M NoMa–Gallaudet is introduced by her state or territory M Crystal City FREE & Good Hope Road, SE representative. SUN, 4/9 11 AM – 2 PM M Anacostia Southwest Waterfront Fireworks The Army and Navy Club, Newseum Nights: In Bloom TICKETS Examine how nature can inspire design and Festival presented by Harris Teeter 901 17th Street, NW FRI, 4/7 7:30 – 10 PM how designers intentionally integrate nature Bonsai – Stories, Inspiration, Art: FREE M Farragut North or Farragut West Explore the Newseum’s most popular into the built environment. Enjoy hands-on Another Special Gift of Trees from SAT, 4/15 2 – 9:30 PM exhibits while enjoying open beer and activities, a community garden project and Japan FREE Beginning at 2 PM, join us for free music, Japan and : Regional views and wine bars, light food, curator-led gallery other opportunities to learn about Japanese TUES, 4/11 12 Noon – 1 PM a beer garden, food trucks, all-ages U.S.-Japan Cooperation FREE talks, cherry blossom-themed activities, art and design. Learn about Japan’s gift of 53 bonsai trees hands-on activities, and more at the Wharf. TUES, 4/4 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM entertainment, and more. Must be 21 National Building Museum, to the U.S. for its Bicentennial, leading Finish the night with a dazzling fireworks Part of the “Views of Japan” event series, an or over. 401 F Street, NW to the founding of the National Bonsai display at 8:30 PM along the Southwest expert panel and Q&A discuss how African Newseum, M Judiciary Sq & Penjing Museum. DC-area authors Waterfront, with best views in Waterfront countries and the U.S. view Japan’s economic 555 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW will share their bonsai experiences in an Park. Pre-fireworks programming begins in and security contributions in Africa. M Archives–Navy Mem’l–Penn Quarter Sakura Taiko Fest 2017 – A Japanese illustrated panel presentation. Waterfront Park at 6 PM. The Cosmos Club, Drumming Celebration FREE Library of Congress, 650 Water Street, SW to 2121 Massachusetts Avenue, NW National Cherry Blossom Festival SUN, 4/9 12 Noon – 2 PM 101 Independence Avenue, SE the Titanic Memorial M Dupont Circle Parade® presented by Events DC Enjoy a lively and dynamic lineup of M Capitol South M L’Enfant Plaza or Waterfront Signature event Premier event National Cherry Blossom Festival 21

Underneath It All: An Underground Basin, 1501 Maine Avenue, SW unusual kimono with expert Paul Tidal Basin Welcome Area Japanese Series TICKETS Fashion Showcase TICKETS M Smithsonian MacLardy. Hundreds of antique and Junior Ranger Activities Blues Alley Jazz Society, SAT, 4/15 7:30 PM WED, 3/15 – SUN, 4/2 10 AM – 7 PM vintage silk kimono, cotton yukata (Daily, 10 AM – 6 PM) 1073 Wisconsin Avenue, NW Featuring acclaimed local designers, this Performances 12 Noon – 6 PM and Japanese gifts and jewelry will be Tidal Basin Welcome Area M Foggy Bottom–GWU runway show co-produced by Dupont Daily outdoor performances at the ANA available to purchase, including a book Cherry Blossom Talk – Jefferson SAT, 4/15 – WED, 4/19 Underground and the Commission on Performance Stage feature captivating by MacLardy that he may personally sign. (Daily, 10 AM, 12 PM, 2 PM, 4 PM & 6 PM) 8 – 9:30 PM & 10 – 11:30 PM Fashion Arts and Events celebrates DC’s examples of cross-cultural exchange Proceeds benefit the National Cherry Thomas Jefferson Memorial Listen to talented emerging musicians cultural diversity and honors the international against a monument- and blossom-filled Blossom Festival. Cherry Blossom Talk – Roosevelt during this unique Japanese jazz relationships that inspired the Festival. backdrop. At the Welcome Area, presented (Daily, 11 AM, 1 PM, 3 PM & 5 PM) performance series presented by the Dupont Underground, 19th Street with the National Park Service, visitors have National Park Service Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial Embassy of Japan. Entrance, 1500 19th Street, NW access to Festival information and various Ranger-Led Programs FREE *Note: Cherry Blossom Talks at Thomas Tiger Okoshi Quintet (Trumpet) M Dupont Circle all-ages activities. M Smithsonian Jefferson and Franklin Delano Roosevelt SAT, 4/15 & SUN, 4/16 WED, 3/15 - SUN, 4/9 Memorials will continue through SUN, 4/9 Mao Sone Quartet (Trumpet/Piano) Classical Piano Recital Rachel Kudo Meet Netsuke – Storytellers of Japan Here’s your chance to get an up-close look MON, 4/17 FREE FREE at the cherry blossoms! Learn more about Inventing Utamaro: A Japanese Erena Terakubo Quartet (Sax) MON, 4/17 6 – 7 PM Japan Information & Culture Center, these natural treasures and enjoy one of Masterpiece Rediscovered FREE TUES, 4/18 Japanese-American pianist Rachel Kudo 1150 18th Street, NW, Suite 100 the many programs led by individuals who Freer|Sackler Gallery of Art, Ami Nakazono will share her musical passion in a richly M Farragut North care for the trees year-round. 1050 Independence Avenue, SW (Sax/Contemporary Jazz) varied program of classical masterpieces. WED, 3/15 – MON, 5/15 9 AM – 5 PM Birds and Blooms Walk M Smithsonian WED, 4/19 John F. Kennedy Center for the (closed weekends & holidays) 3/18, 3/25, 4/1, 4/8 at 7:30 AM SAT, 4/8 – SUN, 7/9 10 AM – 5:30 PM Performing Arts, Millennium Stage, A special spring exhibition of the Japanese World War II Memorial Not shown together since 1879, three Show your support for the National 2700 F Street, NW miniature sculptures, “netsuke”, from Run with a Ranger large-scale works by the legendary Cherry Blossom Festival by bidding M Foggy Bottom–GWU the Edo period. These objects of art 3/18, 3/25, 4/1 and 4/8 at 9 AM Japanese artist Kitagawa Utamaro are on items in the online auction. feature a variety of motifs, each with a Washington Monument Lodge reunited in Inventing Utamaro. The From March 20 – April 16 bid on ONGOING EVENTS unique story to share about Japan. Works Ranger Bike Tours exhibition showcases “Moonlight Revelry unique experiences, vacations, hotel Performances, exhibitions and more loaned courtesy of Evergreen Museum & 3/18, 3/25, 4/1, 4/8 at 1 PM at Dozo Sagami” from the Freer|Sackler packages, restaurant gift cards taking place throughout the Festival. Library, the Johns Hopkins University, and Lincoln Memorial Plaza Gallery, “Fukagawa in the Snow” from and more. Funds raised during For details, including ticket pricing, visit the Beverly and Jay Hopkins Collection. Pups ‘n’ Petals Dog Walk the Okada Museum of Art, and “Cherry the auction help keep Festival nationalcherryblossomfestival.org Additional programs include: 3/18-19, 3/25-26, 4/1-2 and 4/8 at 2 PM Blossoms at Yoshiwara” from the events free and accessible to the WED, 3/15 6:30 – 8 PM Opening lecture Thomas Jefferson Memorial Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art. After community. MON, 4/10 6:30 – 8 PM Rakugo Lantern Walk nearly 140 years, the Freer|Sackler is the Visit bit.ly/NCBFauction to see Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors FREE performance 3/17-3/19, 3/24-3/26, 3/31-4/2, 4/7-4/8 only location where the original triptych will full list of items available. Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture beginning at 8 PM be on view. Garden, Independence Avenue at CineMatsuri 2017 TICKETS 7th Street, SW Landmark Theatres E-Street Cinema, M L’Enfant Plaza or Smithsonian 555 11th Street, NW THURS, 2/23 – SUN, 5/14 M Metro Center 10 AM – 5:30 PM SUN, 3/19 – THURS, 3/23 Yayoi Kusama: Infinity Mirrors celebrates For times, visit cinematsuri.org the legendary Japanese artist’s 65-year CineMatsuri showcases five of Japan’s career and promises to be one of 2017’s most recently acclaimed films, each in essential art experiences. Discover six of a different genre, reflecting the richness Kusama’s captivating Infinity Mirror Rooms and diversity of today’s Japanese cinema. alongside a selection of her other key All films will be shown in Japanese with works, including paintings never before English subtitles. Advance ticket purchase shown in the U.S. Additional programs recommended. include: SUN, 3/26 3 PM – Documentary: “Nearly Glorious Gardens Self-Guided Tours Equal Yayoi Kusama: I Adore Myself (2008)” presented by Visit Fairfax FREE SUN, 4/9 3 PM – Film: “Black Gate Various locations Theater” MON, 3/20 – SUN, 4/16 FRI, 4/14 12:30 PM – Gallery Talk: Mika Fairfax County, located just outside the Yoshitake on Kusama’s Pumpkin District, is home to several splendid gardens that welcome Festival visitors with Online Tidal Basin Paddle Boat Rentals a special gift. Check in at the main desk presented by Guest Services, Inc. and ask for your free memento. Contact TICKETS gardens for respective hours and directions. Paddle Boat Parking Lot, Green Spring 703.642.5173 book by Terrence McNally; music by Stephen Flaherty; 1501 Maine Avenue, SW Meadowlark 703.255.3631 (small lyrics by Lynn Ahrens; based on the novel Ragtime by E.L. Doctorow; M Smithsonian admission fee) music direction by Christopher Youstra; WED, 3/1 – SUN, 4/16 10 AM – 12 Noon River Farm 703.768.5700 choreographed by Michael Bobbitt; directed by Peter Flynn Enjoy a paddle boat ride along the Tidal Basin and experience the best views Kimono Talks and Sale FREE of the blooming cherry blossom trees. Pepco Edison Place Gallery, Reserve your paddle boat at www. 702 8th Street, NW tidalbasinpaddleboats.com. M Gallery Place–Chinatown Now Playing! Through May 20 FRI, 3/24 4 – 6 PM; Lead Sponsors: Altria Group; Oshkosh Corporation | Production Sponsors: ConocoPhillips; Fluor Corporation Tidal Basin Welcome Area and ANA SAT, 3/25 10 AM – 4 PM; Performance Stage FREE SUN, 3/26 10 AM – 2 PM www.fords.org | Tickets: (888) 616-0270 Festival Welcome Area at the Tidal Enjoy an exclusive exhibit of rare and Photo of Kevin McAllister by Scott Suchman. 22 National Cherry Blossom Festival

Thank You to the 2017 Sponsors! LEADERSHIP CIRCLE

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SPECIAL THANKS

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98.7 WMZQ Your Journey Begins with Us BIG 100.3 HOT 99.5 agencyQ Marubeni America Corporation DC101 Big Bus Tours MGM National Harbor Comcast Washington Blade CitySights DC Microsoft 94.7 Fresh FM The Washington Informer The Color Run Mitsubishi Corporation (Americas) El Zol 107.9 Washington Parent Magazine CSI Printing & Graphics NEWSEUM WPGC 95.5 Washingtonian Daiichi Sankyo, Ltd. NHK WORLD TV CultureCapital.com Orange Barrel Media DARCARS Automotive Group Odyssey Cruises WHERE Magazine Ettractions.com Eastern National PANDORA Jewelry Connecting Visitors to Fun EVENTEQ Parkmobile Guest Services, Inc. Peet’s Coffee SUPPORTERS Japan National Tourism Organization Smithsonian American Art Museum JCAW Foundation, Inc. Spirit Cruises Johnson’s Florist and Strongbow Aflac 11th Street Bridge Park Garden Centers Toshiba Chevron 701 Restaurant Lockheed Martin Amtrak Kawasaki Heavy Industries (USA), Inc. TOYOTA The J. Willard and Alice S. Atlas Performing Arts Center Kirin Brewery Union Station Marriott Foundation Breakthru Beverage Group Washington DC Macy’s Warner Theatre Mars, Incorporated Cabot Creamery Cooperative Maker’s Mark Washington Nationals Carmine’s Washington, DC Cherry Tart Wine GLAMSQUAD CORPORATE & COMMUNITY FRIENDS The Graham Georgetown Lycored Mindy Lam Cantina Marina ITOCHU International Inc. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc. Capitol Riverfront BID KPMG, LLP Mitsui Fudosan America Cherry Blossom, Inc. NTT Data, Inc. National Archives Clyde’s Restaurant Group Restaurant Association Metropolitan Omega Studios Cooley LLP Washington Potomac Riverboat Company DLI Inc. (Dai-ichi Life Group) Sumitomo Corporation of Americas Foundation The St. Gregory Hotel Barbara and David Ehrlich University of the District of Columbia The Sally Foss and James Scott Hill Suntory International Corp. Washington Metropolitan Area Foundation Vamoose Bus Transit Authority HITACHI Visit Fairfax Washington Waterfront Association The Hotel Association of Washington, DC JOIN US FOR BLOSSOMS & BASEBALL

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