Things To Do In D.C.: The Blossom Kite Festival, Smithsonian Crafts, and Brewery Tours

Things to Do In D.C.: Family Fun Next Week (March 30 – April )

Are you ready for the most beautiful time of the year in the nation’s capital? If you are planning your itinerary for next week in Washington, D.C., you picked the absolute perfect time to experience the city. Late March brings a spectacular burst of color and vibrant energy to every neighborhood. The predicted peak bloom of the iconic cherry trees transforms the landscape into a stunning sea of pink and white. Here’s the top Things To Do In D.C. next week.

Beyond the flowers, the city comes alive with thrilling sports, captivating theater, and incredible food. We will walk you through the top highlights, including epic outdoor festivals, high-end crafts, and thrilling basketball matchups. Whether you want to sip tea under floral decorations or cheer on your favorite team, this guide will help you build the ultimate schedule.

The Pink Phenomenon: National Cherry Blossom Festival

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is the crown jewel of spring in the capital. Experts predict the peak bloom will occur between March 29 and April 1, making next week the ideal window to visit the Tidal Basin. Strolling under the thousands of blooming Yoshino cherry trees offers a breathtaking experience you simply cannot miss.

If you want to beat the heavy crowds, plan your walk for early in the morning. You can check official bloom updates on the National Park Service website to time your visit perfectly. Make sure to bring your camera, as the blossoms framing the Jefferson Memorial provide a spectacular photo opportunity.

Blossom Kite Festival Magic

On March 28, look up at the sky near the Washington Monument grounds to witness a truly magical sight. The Blossom Kite Festival brings families, professional kite fliers, and enthusiastic beginners together for a massive, free celebration. Hundreds of colorful kites dance against the backdrop of the city’s most famous monuments.

You can bring your own kite from home or purchase one on-site. The event features exciting competitions, kite-making stations, and demonstrations by expert fliers. It serves as an excellent way to spend a spring afternoon outdoors with your family.

Bloomaroo at The Wharf

Keep the floral celebrations going on March 28 by heading over to Bloomaroo at The Wharf. This massive waterfront party offers hours of free entertainment. You will find multiple stages featuring live music, incredible interactive art installations, and plenty of family-friendly activities.

As the sun sets over the Potomac River, the festivities wrap up with a spectacular fireworks display. Grab dinner at one of the many renowned restaurants along the water before settling in to watch the show.

Sip and Savor: Cherry Blossom Afternoon Teas

If you prefer a more relaxing way to celebrate the season, you should book a table for afternoon tea. Many of the city’s finest hotels go all out for the festival. Fairmont’s Cherry Blossom Afternoon Tea, starting March 28, provides a luxurious, seasonal experience.

You can enjoy delicate pastries flavored with cherry, warm scones, and exceptional tea blends. The elegant dining rooms often feature massive floral installations, allowing you to enjoy the blossoms indoors. Make sure to secure your reservations early, as these specialized menus sell out incredibly fast.

Arts, Culture, and Crafts to Explore

While the outdoors might steal the spotlight, the indoor cultural scene shines just as brightly. Discovering what is happening next week in Washington, D.C. means diving deep into the arts. The city boasts a staggering variety of theatrical performances, art exhibits, and high-end craft shows.

You can also explore rich local narratives and historical perspectives. For more insights on compelling cultural stories, read more at thenarrativematters.com.

The Smithsonian Craft Show

Opening on March 27 at the awe-inspiring National Building Museum, the Smithsonian Craft Show highlights exceptional American design. This prestigious juried event features over a hundred talented artists from across the country. You can browse one-of-a-kind pieces ranging from ceramics and glass to wearable art and intricate woodwork.

Purchasing a ticket supports the Smithsonian Institution’s educational programs. Even if you simply want to browse, the sheer creativity on display will leave you feeling deeply inspired. It represents the perfect activity for an afternoon when you need a break from the springtime sun.

Theatrical Highlights You Can’t Miss

Theater lovers have an abundance of choices hitting the stage right now. Head over to the Woolly Mammoth Theatre on March 28 to catch Sasha Velour’s Travesty, an incredible performance blending drag, storytelling, and visual art. On that same day, the historic Folger Theatre opens its highly anticipated production of William Shakespeare’s As You Like It.

If you are traveling with children or simply love a classic musical, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast also opens on March 28. For visual art enthusiasts, the Phillips Collection continues its fascinating “Miró and the United States” exhibit, highlighting the famous surrealist’s connection to American artists.

Sports Action and Guided Tours

Beyond the blossoms and theaters, the capital pulses with intense athletic competition and engaging guided experiences. Whether you love hockey, college hoops, or local craft beer, the schedule offers something exciting.

NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament

Capital One Arena transforms into a hub of massive energy as it hosts the 2026 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament. The East Regional games take place in late March, bringing passionate fans from across the country to the city. The electric atmosphere surrounding March Madness spills out into the neighboring streets, filling local sports bars and restaurants with cheering crowds.

If basketball is not your favorite, you can still catch thrilling sports action. The Washington Capitals host their Fan Appreciation Night on March 23 at Capital One Arena. Expect exciting giveaways, special tributes, and high-stakes hockey as the regular season winds down.

Exploring the City on Foot and by Pint

Guided tours provide a fantastic way to learn about the city’s hidden gems. On March 27, join the DC Signature Brew Tour to taste exceptional local craft beers while learning about the brewing process. A knowledgeable guide will safely transport you between several top-rated breweries, offering curated flights and food pairings.

History buffs should look forward to the U Street Corridor Building Black Broadway Tour. Running into early April, this walking tour highlights the incredible architectural and cultural history of one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. You will learn about the iconic musicians and leaders who shaped the community.

Culinary Delights and Community Fun

Washington’s dining scene continues to gain international acclaim, and spring offers the perfect excuse to indulge. Weekend brunch stands as a beloved local tradition, and restaurants introduce spectacular seasonal menus to celebrate the warmer weather.

Weekend Brunching

Kick off your Sunday morning on March 29 with Bottomless Brunch DJ Sessions at Lyle’s. This lively neighborhood spot combines fantastic food with energetic beats, creating a perfect weekend vibe. Share plates of inventive American cuisine with friends while enjoying expertly crafted cocktails.

If you are planning slightly further ahead, Easter Brunch at The VUE on April 5 promises an unforgettable holiday meal. Located near the White House, this rooftop restaurant offers panoramic views of the city skyline alongside a decadent brunch spread.

Looking Ahead to Petalpalooza

As March transitions into April, the celebrations continue. Petalpalooza takes over the Capitol Riverfront on April 4. This massive, family-friendly festival features interactive art installations, a roller rink, and multiple outdoor stages. It serves as a beautiful capstone to a week filled with unforgettable springtime activities.

Start Planning Your Spring Getaway

With so many incredible events packed into a single week, Washington, D.C. proves why it is the ultimate spring destination. From the natural wonder of the Tidal Basin to the roar of the crowd at Capital One Arena, the city delivers unforgettable experiences. Grab your walking shoes, book your event tickets, and get ready to enjoy everything the nation’s capital has to offer.

#WashingtonDC #CherryBlossoms #SpringEvents

{ “@context”: “https://schema.org”, “@type”: “NewsArticle”, “headline”: “Next Week in Washington, D.C.: Cherry Blossoms, NCAA Madness, and Cultural Delights”, “image”: “https://i0.wp.com/thenarrativematters.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/kite-festival.png?fit=800%2C450&ssl=1”, “datePublished”: “2026-03-27”, “dateModified”: “2026-03-27”, “author”: { “@type”: “Person”, “name”: “David Beckford” }, “publisher”: { “@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “The Narrative Matters”, “logo”: { “@type”: “ImageObject”, “url”: “https://thenarrativematters.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/logo.png” } }, “description”: “Discover the best events next week in Washington, D.C., including the Blossom Kite Festival, Smithsonian Craft Show, and NCAA basketball excitement.”, “mainEntityOfPage”: { “@type”: “WebPage”, “@id”: “https://thenarrativematters.com/things-to-do-in-d-c-the-blossom-kite-festival-smithsonian-crafts-and-brewery-tours/” } }