1. Not all of the area cherry blossoms are past their peak… the Kwanzan cherry trees at Congressional Cemetery are in glorious full bloom right now! And the locale on Capitol Hill makes for a great visit beyond the flowers with gravesites of notable people, lovely peaceful paths to stroll, and geocaching opportunities. You can also bring your dog to run around off-leash most days. Admission to the cemetery is free, but a doggy day pass is $15. Open dawn to dusk, and be sure to check that it’s not closed for a funeral. Read more about Congressional Cemetery here.
2. The National Cherry Blossom Festival wraps up this weekend and culminating with two of its best events: The annual National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade on Saturday (10am – 12pm) and Sakura Matsuri on Saturday and Sunday (10:30am – 6pm). The parade always draws thousands of people to watch the procession of floats, giant helium balloons, marching bands, and a variety of performers make their way down Constitution Avenue, so plan to arrive early to stake out a spot on the curb for a good view of it all. Following the parade (or even during to beat the crowds or on Sunday), head over to Pennsylvania Avenue where Sakura Matsuri, the annual Japanese street festival, will feature live music, dance performances, all kinds of Asian and Western foods, martial arts demos, Japanese art, and much more. Admission to the festival starts at $10 for ages 13 and up (free for 12 and under).
3. Five great road trips to take this spring, all within a four-hour drive from the DC area.
4. A friend just told me about this item for long flights. She said while it looks ridiculous, she used it on an overnight to Europe and had the best sleep she’s ever had on an airplane.
5. I recently shared a write-up about our summer vacation in Greece, and there’s now a new a post with packing recommendations for a trip there.
