On Saturday, residents from all over the nation gathered at the Washington Monument in D.C. for the Blossom Kite Festival, celebrating the cherry blossoms finally reaching peak bloom. Started in 1967, the event is a staple during the month-long National Cherry Blossom Festival.
The festival featured a wide range of aerial displays, from professional “kite ballet” performances to hand-made designs flown by local families and tourists.
Beyond the kites, the festival also honored the cultural ties between the United States and Japan. Attendees gathered for traditional Japanese drumming performances and interactive stations celebrating the history behind the gift of the trees.
But for many, like Deborah Roose, the Blossom Kite Festival signified a moment of community and time spent together.
“In this day and age, people are on their screens all the time,” said Roose. “To see people’s creativity and perseverance and families being together, it’s really nice.”
The National Cherry Blossom Festival continues through April 12. Upcoming highlights include the annual Cherry Blossom parade down Constitution Avenue on April 11.
