The National Cherry Blossom Festival unveiled plans for the 2026 Festival and unveiled the Official Artwork created by Tim Yanke, at a launch and unofficial reveal event at Sequoia DC and Washington Harbour in Northwest D.C. on Nov. 20.
District officials, National Cherry Blossom Festival leadership and sponsors, staff from the Embassy of Japan and special guests not only announced the plans for next year’s programming, but brought beautiful spring vibes despite the chilly November day.
“Each year’s launch sets the stage with a countdown to spring and for an unforgettable festival season— one filled with music, art, community, and new experiences for everyone to enjoy,” said Diana Mayhew, president and CEO of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.
Festival officials revealed “America in Bloom,” the original artwork for the 2026 festival by Tim Yanke.
A Detroit-based artist represented by Park West Gallery, Yanke’s distinctive “Neo-West” style blends abstract expressionism and Americana. The artist is known for his bold use of color and rhythm, drawing inspiration from vivid hues and cultural symbols, with recurring motifs such as dragonflies and the American flag.
Yanke’s art has been exhibited internationally and collected worldwide
“Being chosen as the official artist for the National Cherry Blossom Festival is both an honor and a heartfelt moment in my journey as an artist,” said Yanke. “My underlying abstract approach allows me to translate the spirit of the Festival—its color, its movement, its joy—rather than simply depicting the blossoms literally. I hope to foster a personal connection while reminding people that beauty and friendship, like the blossoms themselves, are fleeting and meant to be shared.”
At the Nov. 20 event, festival officials announced exciting updates about the 2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival, including continuing programs such as Blossom Kicks for Kids and Blossom Tea Party presented by Events DC.
They also announced the Blossom Block initiative, an expansion of City in Bloom, which will partner with local Business Improvement Districts around the city to showcase the magic of the cherry blossoms throughout the city’s streets.
For the first time, the Opening Ceremony will be held at DAR Constitution Hall in Northwest on March 21, expanding visitor access to view the cross-cultural ceremony. The Blossom Kite Festival on March 28 will recognize America’s 250th Birthday with a “Red, White and Bloom” theme for the Kite Competition.
Additionally, the April 4 Petalpalooza®, a signature event, will feature a new component, Cherry Blast.
The 2026 Pink Tie Party will be on March 13 under the theme “Art of Fashion.” Attendees will be immersed in the world of fashion, from conception to couture, having the opportunity to strut their fashionable Pink Tie Party looks on the runway.
The event concludes with the announcement of the 2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade performers on April 11, which will feature Season 7 “American Idol” runner-up David Archuleta; Season 23 “American Idol” finalist Gabby Samone; and ‘80s funk band Club Nouveau with more announcements to come.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival, one of the world’s greatest celebrations of spring, will take place March 20 – April 12, 2026.
“D.C.,” Mayhew said, “is the place to be this spring.”