Washingtonians and tourists took to the Capitol Riverfront in Southeast, D.C. for the National Cherry Blossom Festival’s free, day-long Petalpooloza on April 5.
The event, which was presented by Chase Bank, included five entertainment areas: Navy Yard Metro/Yards Park, Tingey Plaza, Chase Main Stage at The Yards, The Great Lawn, and Diamond Teague Park.
Activities like silent disco, an art market, yard games, and hands-on creativity stations were available for anyone interested while musical acts like Rare Essence, Natalie Redd and the Perfekt Blend Band graced the stage throughout the day.
“We want people to feel a sense of community, [like] they were actually part of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, not just a bystander,” said Diana Mayhew, CEO of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. “It’s a day to embrace the joy of spring, explore new experiences, and come together to celebrate the magic of the season.”
Petalpalooza was part of the month-long program through the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which celebrates not only D.C. culture, but international relations, Japan gifted 3,000 cherry trees to the nation’s capital in 1912, symbolizing friendship between the two nations, and the festival has since evolved into a beloved springtime tradition.
“The National Cherry Blossom Festival is a vibrant tradition that celebrates the beauty of our dynamic neighborhoods across D.C.,” said Alfonso Guzman, Mid-Atlantic Region Director at Chase Bank.
For Jacqueline Smith, going on her 15th year as a festival volunteer, celebrating the beautiful pink plant is part of what keeps her coming back annually.
“I chose to be a volunteer because I like nature,” she said. “I saw these beautiful trees once and I wanted to come just to visit but then, I saw the festival and [saw people could volunteer.]”
D.C. native Sierra Johnson was excited to attend after being away from the country for three years, studying abroad.
“I’m just having a good time, I love the color pink so I’m just happy to see it all, [and it’s been] really good vibes. It’s nice to see all the kids out and playing,” she told The Informer, before noting it offered a level of childhood nostalgia. “I always went to see the cherry blossoms when I was younger with my family and friends.”