Cherry Blossom Festival 2023 Dates, Artwork, and Parade Grand Marshalls Announced

Kimberly Bassett, Secretary for Washington, DC, Diana Mayhew, President and CEO for National Cherry Blossom Festival, and Orlando Quevedo, official artist unveil the 2023 National Cherry Blossom official artwork on Nov. 29 at the University Club. Image courtesy NCBF.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival recently announced plans for its 2023 festival happenings — including an unveiling of the official artwork and an announcement of the grand marshals for the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade!

The 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival, to be held March 20-April 16, 2023 is “spring’s biggest welcome party – spanning four weeks and reaching from D.C. to Maryland, Virginia, and beyond,” said Diana Mayhew, president and CEO of the National Cherry Blossom Festival at a launch event on November 29 at the University Club of Washington.

“Spring’s arrival is only 16 weeks away, and we plan to present a host of traditional favorites and new experiences that will unite communities and bring friends and families together to make wonderful memories.”

Carson Kressley, Celebrity emcee for the Festival launch event, and Orlando Quevedo, 2023 official artist together at the Festival launch event Nov. 29 at the University Club. Image courtesy NCBF

Not only was the official artwork by Park West Gallery ‘magical realism’ artist Orlando Quevedo unveiled, but Walt Disney’s Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse were announced as the Grand Marshalls of the parade, taking place April 15 on Constitution Avenue and featuring award-winning performers, marching bands from across the nation, performances from local artists, youth groups, choirs, costume characters, and much more.

While the parade is free for viewing on the street, limited Grandstand tickets are available for purchase here

Check back for more Cherry Blossom Festival event information.