All the Ways We’re Celebrating Cherry Blossom Szn
Delicate buds and blooms that herald the arrival of spring. An explosion of pink blossoms across the city. The months of March and April in Washington, DC, have become synonymous with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, and this year the period known as “peak bloom”—when 70% of the Yoshino Cherry blossoms are open—is estimated by the National Park Service to be between March 28–31. (Depending on weather conditions, the cherry blossoms typically continue to bloom into early April.)
Experiencing our nation’s capital awash in pink and white petals makes for one seriously iconic travel moment, and if you’re coming to DC for the cherry blossoms this year, we’re ready to enhance your excitement at Arlo Washington DC.
The tradition of celebrating DC’s cherry blossom season began in 1912, when 3,020 cherry trees were shipped from Yokohama, Japan, bound for Seattle and on to Washington, DC. The striking blooms are a symbol of spring’s vitality and sense of renewal, and the trees were a gift of friendship to the People of the United States from the People of Japan.
Here’s how we’re honoring that spirit across the hotel this cherry blossom season.
Photo Opps
When you’re strolling the National Mall, the juxtaposition of our nation’s monuments and those pretty pink petals is one of the most coveted shots to capture. But with blooms all over the city, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to fill your social feeds with picturesque pink petals. Here at Arlo Washington DC, our entire rooftop at ART DC will be decked out in cherry blossom décor, so you can get sexy snaps of the skyline and the sakura (the Japanese name for the cherry blossom tree or flower). You’ll also want to stop by the cherry-blossom-adorned front entrance of the hotel for a grand arrival moment.
Flower-Inspired Flavors
While you’re enjoying the panoramic views up at ART DC, you can also savor the distinct flavors of Japan. While ART DC’s year-round menu pays homage to Japan and Pan-Asian cuisine and beverages, the bar is offering a special cherry blossom menu just for the season. The “Tokyo to Tidal Basin” menu takes inspiration from local spots such as Jesse’s Seafood Market at The Wharf, local carry-out chicken wings and mumbo sauce, half-smokes from local food trucks, and the famous Ben’s Chili Bowl—each with a Japanese twist. Highlights from the menu include the Half-Smoke Bao Bun, The Wharf Seafood Platter, Miso-Mumbo Karaage Fried Chicken, and the Chesapeake Okonomiyaki.
Blossom-Based Beverages
Raise a glass to the beauty of the blooms all around you, with one of ART DC’s special cherry-blossom-inspired cocktails. The Sakura Rickey is a Japanese twist on Washington DC’s classic highball cocktail, first introduced in the 1880s at a bar near Capitol Hill. Originally, the drink featured just lime, whiskey, and soda, and was a lighter alternative to other whiskey drinks. Gin was gradually added to the mix over time, and our version elevates the formula with Roku Gin, preserved blossoms, and sparkling sake to add a Japanese flair. Another standout on the menu is the Matcha at The Monument—our version of a “matcha martini” made with earthy matcha and Haku Vodka, plus egg white for a pillowy softness with each sip. And if you’re a fan of DC’s street food, you might be drawn to the Shogun Half-Smoke, a bold and smoky drink inspired by those dishes. The Half-Smoke blends Toki Japanese Whisky and Ilegal Joven Mezcal with charred honey syrup to encapsulate the sweet smokiness of a delicious Half-Smoke link.
A Cherry Blossom Szn Soiree
For a fresh perspective on the beauty of these incredible blooms, join us for our Living Room Gallery Cherry Blossom Season Artist Reception on March 27. The evening will showcase paintings by collaborative art duo Claire & Siri, whose work explores the plant world and the relationship between humanity and nature—and happens to feature cherry blossoms. Also honoring Women’s History Month, the party will include a conversation with the artists, beats from our favorite female DJ, and the chance to mingle with DC locals and fellow art-lovers.
For a front-row view of all this floral magnificence, there’s no better place to stay this cherry-blossom season than Arlo Washington DC. Like the gorgeous trees we’re paying tribute to this spring, the hotel is a blend of history and modern beauty, and staying with us puts you within walking distance of some of the city’s most iconic monuments and landmarks. It also means you’ll have the easiest access to our special cherry blossom menus and events. Win-win!
Make your cherry-blossom season reservations at Arlo Washington DC today.
