The
National Cherry Blossom Festival is a spring celebration in
Washington, D.C., commemorating the March 27, 1912, gift of
Japanese cherry trees from Mayor
Yukio Ozaki of
Tokyo City to the city of Washington. Mayor Ozaki donated the trees in an effort to enhance the growing friendship between the
United States and
Japan and also celebrate the continued close relationship between the two nations. Giant colorful helium balloons, elaborate floats, the energy-filled Parade, marching bands from across the country and a grand spectacle of music and showmanship seen only once a year are parts of the Festival.