ICYMI: 2017 Cherry Blossoms Update: The Opening Ceremony Kicks Off Saturday

Editor's note: This story was originally published earlier this week.

WASHINGTON, DC — The National Cherry Blossom Festival is now just a few days away, with the official kickoff set for Saturday, March 25.

The Warner Theatre in downtown D.C. will host "traditional and contemporary performances" in honor of the festival on Saturday. Opening Ceremony performances include Shigeyama Kyogen, a spoken drama from Japan; EL Squad, a blend of contemporary dance and music; and May J, a famous J-pop artist in Japan.

The event will take place from 5 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. It is free to enter, but advance ticketing is required and there is a $5 registration fee when tickets are claimed.

Visit the National Cherry Blossom Festival's website for more information on the event and how to get tickets.

Here are the latest posts on social media about the cherry blossoms in D.C.:

Enjoy special performances at BloomBars Day today on the ANA Performance Stage! Blossoms are blooming! https://t.co/52kfTK22x2 pic.twitter.com/BEWlaatAoS
— The Official NCBF (@CherryBlossFest) March 22, 2017

Even the food in DC is inspired by the Cherry Blossoms this time of year https://t.co/g7uWShofx1 @nbcwashington
— Alex Fruin (@afruin) March 22, 2017

These guys have a bird's (or duck's) eye view of the #cherryblossoms @CherryBlossFest pic.twitter.com/Ys5hEdd5Hf
— MJ Schmitt (@maryjeanschmitt) March 22, 2017

Image via National Park Service