National Cherry Blossom Festival To Postpone, Cancel Some Events

WASHINGTON, DC — The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC announced Wednesday that some events will be canceled or postponed due to new coronavirus concerns. The changes apply to events through March 31, and organizers are considering what changes to make for April events.

The decision comes in light of a recommendation from the DC Department of Health. The health department is calling for all events and gatherings of people over 1,000 in size to be postponed or cancelled. The recommendation is in effect through March 31. DC Mayor Muriel Bowser declared a state of emergency Wednesday with 10 confirmed cases of the new coronavirus, or COVID-19.

The changes are as follows:

• Pink Tie Party on March 20 is postponed. The festival is looking into rescheduling the event. The silent auction fundraiser will happen online.
• The Opening Ceremony on March 21 will not happen at the Warner Theatre. The festival is looking at livestream options.
• The Blossom Kite Festival on March 28 is canceled.
• The Tidal Basin Welcome Area is canceled.

"It is a difficult decision and one that we do not take lightly," said Diana Mayhew, president and CEO of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. "The health and safety of the performers, guests, volunteers and festival staff is our priority. We have been working closely with the city government, [World Health Organization] and [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention] as well as our partners to determine the best course of action."

The National Cherry Blossom Festival runs from March 20 to April 12. The decision comes after the National Park Service moved the forecast for peak bloom's start to March 21 through 24. NPS cited warmer temperatures over the last week that are anticipated to continue.

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More information and updates on the new coronavirus can be found from the DC Department of Health, Virginia Department of Health and CDC.

Health officials urge residents to take these steps to avoid the virus:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer only if soap and water are not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Avoid contact with sick people.