Discover Virginia's Gardens & Culture During National Cherry Blossom Festival®
FAIRFAX COUNTY, Va. (PRWEB) March 02, 2018 -- Visitors to Washington, DC’s famed, cherry-tree-lined Tidal Basin have even more options for celebrating those spectacular blossoms in 2018. Nearby Fairfax County, Virginia will host a number of official events during this year’s National Cherry Blossom Festival®, as well as other cherry blossom-themed exhibits, self-guided garden tours, and activities celebrating Japanese culture and heritage. Peak bloom dates are expected March 17 – 20, 2018. For up-to-date information, visit http://www.fxva.com/cherryblossom.
GLORIOUS GARDENS TOUR
Explore some of Northern Virginia’s finest gardens during the National Cherry Blossom Festival®. Visitors who would like to go beyond the famous Tidal Basin are invited to plan a self-guided tour of some of the region’s most splendid gardens. In addition to the District’s iconic cherry trees, plan stops at the following not-to-miss sites:
River Farm, http://ahsgardening.org/about-river-farm, 703-768-5700
A historic 25-acre site on the banks of the Potomac River, River Farm was once part of George Washington’s original five farms, and is currently the headquarters of the American Horticultural Society. The grounds offer spectacular river views, a wildlife garden and delightful children’s areas. Free entrance.
Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, https://www.novaparks.com/parks/meadowlark-botanical-gardens, 703-255-3631
More than 100 cherry trees surrounding a lovely lake, an extensive shade garden, native wildflowers, gazebos, birds, butterflies, seasonal blooms and foliage make up Meadowlark Botanical Gardens. Also be sure to visit the only Korean Bell Garden open to the public in the western hemisphere during your visit. Small entrance fee at door.
Green Spring Gardens, https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/parks/green-spring , 703-642-5173
Embrace nature at Green Spring Gardens, where you’ll find a wooded stream, a valley with ponds, a native plant garden, over 20 thematic demonstration gardens, and a greenhouse filled with tropical plants. It’s an outdoor classroom, a museum and a national historic site. Free entrance.
During the Festival, visitors are encouraged to check in at the main desk at each garden to receive a special complimentary memento and information on other National Cherry Blossom Festival® events. Check garden website for hours and directions.
CULTURAL EVENTS
March 20 to April 15 - Fairfax County’s Festival Central at the Fairfax County Visitor Center
The official Fairfax County Visitor Center in Tysons Corner Center (on 2nd level outside Nordstrom) is "Festival Central" in Fairfax County. The public is invited to stop in for free gifts, Festival schedules and information on activities throughout the region. On March 31, the Center will host a special event from 1pm – 3pm with craft demonstrations and more! (http://www.fxva.com/plan-your-trip/visitor-center; 703-752-9500)
March 24 – Plants & Design: Japanese Garden Design at Green Spring Gardens
Japanese garden design is an art form millennia in the making. Stone, gravel, water, bridges, paths and plants all hold significance. Whether you are looking to make your own Japanese style garden or simply want to learn to appreciate the elemental meanings, Horticulturist Bevan Shimizu will teach you the essentials in creating a Japanese style garden. This program is from 9:30 – 11am. $22/person. Registration code: 290 285 7201.
March 31 – Cherry STEM Day at the Lab at Children’s Science Center Lab
Design your own cherry blossom petal, flower, or tree to truly remember 2018’s Cherry Blossom Festival! Visitors will create their own unique representation of a cherry blossom. By growing their own crystals, guests explore the world of chemical reactions and solubility and become chemists! This Lab is open from 10am – 6pm. Activity included in price of admission to Lab. Lab located inside Fair Oaks Mall.
April 7 – Family Fun: Asian Brush Painting at Green Spring Gardens
Celebrate the blooming of the cherry trees and Japanese culture with Asian sumi-e brush painting for kids and parents. Learn about the materials and brush strokes used in this beautiful art style and take home your own brush painting masterpiece. The program is from 1 – 2:30pm and is designed for ages 5 to adult. $10/person. Registration code: 290 289 9201.
April 14 – Cherry Blossom Second Saturday Art Walk at the Workhouse Arts Center
See an artistic celebration of the Cherry Blossom Festival in every building of the Workhouse Arts Center campus during the evening Second Saturday Art Walk, including Cherry Blossom Art demonstrations for all ages, gallery receptions, and studio talks. Arrive before sunset to stroll the property and see our own cherry trees along Rt. 123. Buildings and history museum open at noon. Find Cherry Blossom custom jewelry, ceramics, glass and other visual arts. Talk to our artists about what inspires them. The Art Walk runs from 6 – 9pm. Admission is always free.
Visit Fairfax (http://www.fxva.com) is the official tourism organization for Fairfax County, Virginia. Charged with destination marketing and tourism promotion, it is directed by many of the County's top tourism and hospitality leaders. For more information on deals, events and more, download the free Visit Fairfax app at http://www.fxva.com/plan-your-trip/mobile-app. Be sure to follow us on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/visitfairfaxva), Twitter (@VisitFairfax), and Instagram (@VisitFairfax) for all Fairfax County events and activities this Spring! Hashtag: #FXVA
The National Cherry Blossom Festival® is the nation's greatest springtime celebration. The 2018 Festival, March 20 - April 15, includes nearly four spectacular weeks of events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. The 2018 Festival commemorates the 106th anniversary of the gift of the cherry blossom trees and the enduring friendship between the United States and Japan. 877.44.BLOOM // nationalcherryblossomfestival.org // @CherryBlossFest // facebook.com/CherryBlossomFestival
Ali Morris, Visit Fairfax [Fairfax County Convention & Visitors Corp.], http://www.fxva.com, +1 703-752-9505, [email protected]
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