The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade® presented by Events DC — the nation’s springtime parade — returns Saturday, April 13, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., bringing a roster of world-class performers and entertainers.
The colorful celebration marches down Washington, D.C.’s iconic Constitution Avenue NW, spanning 7th and 17th Streets, and is one of the signature events of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The Parade is free for viewing on the street, and limited individual and group Grandstand tickets are available for purchase.
This year’s Parade includes special guests, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, and Parade Grand Marshal Princess Tiana, bringing the magic of Walt Disney World Resort. Honorary Marshall The Bachelorette’s Charity Lawson and Miss District of Columbia Jude Mabone will also make special appearances. Performers include Sugarhill Gang — pioneers of the hip-hop movement, disco diva Martha Wash, American Idol 2023 top three finalist Colin Stough, The Voice Season 24 contestant Jacquie Roar, Nolan Almeida from the “Peter Pan” National Tour, hip-hop group The Funky Bunch, Go-Go band Mambo Sauce, trio Voices of Classic Soul, and the National Children’s Chorus.
The broadcast will be co-hosted by Robert Burton and Eileen Whelan of 7News. Emmy-award-winning TV personality Carson Kressley and Victoria Sanchez of 7News will provide commentary from the street. The broadcast will be televised in Washington, D.C., and will be nationally syndicated from April 20 to June 30, 2024.
At the end of the parade, Toby and Chilli of WASH-FM will emcee a celebration in the West End, between 15th and 17th Streets on Constitution Avenue NW.
“We are so excited to bring stellar performers and personalities that will add even more color to the Nation’s Springtime Parade,” said Diana Mayhew, president and CEO of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. “We want this Parade to be memorable for families along the Parade route and those watching at home. I hope you will join us and celebrate the joy of spring.”
The Parade will also feature elaborate floats and balloons, marching bands from across the nation, performances from local artists, youth groups, choirs, costume characters, and much more. Giant helium balloon Shrek will be making his parade debut, along with other Parade favorites Hello Kitty, Smurfette, and more.
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