Monday, November 24, 2025
By Mia Pech
Even with autumn leaves on the ground, D.C. is already looking ahead to spring. On Thursday, November 20, the National Cherry Blossom Festival unveiled its plans for 2026 and revealed the year’s official artwork during a kickoff event at Washington Harbour inside Sequoia DC. District officials, sponsors, invited guests and members of the press gathered for an early preview of the festival’s upcoming programs and performances.
A major highlight of the evening was the unveiling of the 2026 official artwork, titled “America in Bloom,” created by Detroit-based artist Tim Yanke. His “Neo-West” style blends Abstract Expressionism and Americana. His pieces often feature a bold use of color alongside cultural motifs such as dragonflies and the American flag.
Kimberly Bassett, secretary of the District of Columbia, speaks at the event. Photo by Mia Pech.
His 2026 artwork presents 13 butterflies, each symbolizing one of the original 13 colonies. The butterflies are “important symbolism, especially in Native American life,” Yanke said. “It’s everlasting life, renewal, self-transformation and kindness.”
In recognition of America’s 250th anniversary, the Festival also announced that 250 new cherry blossom trees will be donated as another gesture of friendship from Japan. These trees will be planted next to the originals as a symbol of peace and respect.
The 2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival will run from March 20 through April 12 and will begin with an opening ceremony at DAR Constitution Hall.
Artist Tim Yanke (middle) stands with Diana Mayhew, president and CEO of the National Cherry Blossom Festival (right). Photo by Mia Pech.
“The 2026 Festival promises to be a mix of tradition and new experiences that help us continue to blossom,” said Diana Mayhew, the festival’s president and CEO. “This year we are partnering with the DAR for the first time to host the National Cherry Blossom Festival—this will nearly double the number of attendees that we’ll be able to accommodate, to see a once-in-a-lifetime show with these world-class Japanese performers.”
Board Chair David Moran said the 2026 Festival will feature “exciting cultural arts, music and community experiences among the beautiful cherry trees and throughout the city.”
Visitors can look forward to highlights such as the Blossom Kite Festival, Sakura Taiko Fest, the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, the Art of Pink and Blossom Block.
Artist Tim Yanke’s artwork, displayed outside at Washington Harbour. Photo by Mia Pech.