WASHINGTON — A preview of the 2023 National Cherry Blossom Festival was presented Tuesday at the University Club of Washington, D.C.
American TV personality Carson Kressley acted as the MC for the evening as the official artwork was unveiled and grand marshals were identified for the upcoming event.
Officials say the festival celebrating Japanese culture and international friendship will be held from March 20 through April 16, 2023 in the District.
The artwork for the event, unveiled Tuesday, was created by Orlando Quevedo, an immigrant from Cuba who specializes in "magical realism."
Mickey and Minnie Mouse will also make an appearance at the upcoming festival. They are expected to travel all the way from Walt Disney to serve as grand marshals for the parade.
Since Japan has officially reopened for travel since the pandemic, Japan's biggest airline, All Nippon Airways (ANA), is getting in on the celebration by offering free flights. The airline is holding a sweepstakes for a pair of roundtrip economy class tickets from the U.S. to Tokyo. Details will be announced in mid-December.
In addition, on March 20, officials say the Frederick Douglas Memorial Bridge will light up pink for its 2nd consecutive year in honor of the festival.
Watch the full video above for additional details on the upcoming festivities.
