By Lani Gering

I was way behind the Eight-ball during deadline for this issue and was almost ready to tear my hair out when I received a very informative press release from our friend Havila at Maven PR. We published some of the Cherry Blossom events in the March column but didn’t include what is happening at the Gaylord. Looks like this is a great one stop shop for most things Blossom related. See below:

Each spring, travelers and locals alike flock to the Washington, D.C. region in search of peak cherry blossom moments. In 2026, Gaylord National Resort redefines the experience, pairing its coveted waterfront location with immersive spring programming, culinary artistry, and—for the first time ever—cherry trees in bloom inside its iconic Garden Atrium.

New this season, the resort’s, glass‑enclosed Garden Atrium hosts indoor cherry blossom garden, offering guests a weather‑proof, crowd‑free way to experience the beauty of spring. Located at the heart of National Harbor—an official participant in the National Cherry Blossom Festival—Gaylord National places guest’s steps from waterfront events, early‑blooming trees, and seasonal celebrations:

Walk Through a Blooming Cherry Blossom Garden—Indoors

For the first time ever, cherry trees are blooming inside Gaylord National’s Garden Atrium. Guests can view blossoms and capture iconic photos—no weather worries required.

Immerse Yourself with the Cherry Blossom Escape Package

& Seasonal Cherry Blossom Suite

Experience cherry blossom season at its fullest with a stay at Gaylord National. The Cherry Blossom Escape Package includes overnight accommodation, a $50 nightly food and beverage credit, welcome drinks, morning yoga sessions, and complimentary rides on the National Harbor Circulator Bus. Packages begin at $259 per night.

For an even more luxurious retreat, the Cherry Blossom Suite offers a romantic, luxurious escape with soft pink tones, floral accents, and sweeping views of National Harbor and the D.C. skyline. This elevated experience includes Celebrity Service check‑in, a $150 food and beverage credit, and valet parking. Suite stays begin at $1200 per night. Guests are placed at the center of National Harbor’s Spring programming, without the congestion of downtown D.C.

Indulge in Cherry Blossom–Inspired Spa Rituals at Relâche Spa

Relâche Spa welcomes spring with a limited‑time cherry blossom treatment menu designed to restore balance and glow. Seasonal highlights include the Cherry Blossom Balancing Massage, featuring custom pressure and cherry blossom essential oils, and the Cherry Blossom Berry Facial, a hydrating, radiance‑boosting experience ideal for spring skin renewal. Guests can also opt for a seasonal body ritual or nourishing nail service for a head‑to‑toe refresh.

Explore National Harbor’s Official Cherry Blossom Festival Programming

As an official National Cherry Blossom Festival participant, National Harbor hosts its own slate of waterfront performances, family‑friendly events, seasonal pop‑ups, and public art installations—all just steps from the resort. To learn more about the festival line up, visit the National Harbor’s website here

Discover Hands‑On Cherry Blossom Classes Inside the Atrium

This spring, Gaylord National invites guests and locals to go beyond simply viewing the blossoms, offering immersive, hands-on classes designed for food lovers and spirits aficionados. Hosted within the intimate Atrium Houses, these ticketed experiences blend creativity, flavor, and seasonal inspiration.

Cherry Blossoms & Buttercream Cake Class
April 11 | Capital Confectionery

Perfect for baking enthusiasts or anyone who loves sweet artistry, this hands-on decorating class is led by the resort’s pastry chef and who teaches guests how to craft their own cherry blossom–inspired cake using floral piping, pastel palettes, and buttercream techniques.

Sakura Spirits: Japanese Whisky Tasting
April 30 | The Whiskey Revolution

A one‑night‑only, ticketed experience featuring rare Japanese whiskies and refined spring flavors, guided by expert hosts in an intimate setting. This experience is ideal for whiskey lovers and curious sippers looking to explore craftsmanship, culture, and nuanced flavor profiles.

Stroll Early‑Blooming Cherry Trees Along the National Harbor Waterfront

More than 200 Okame cherry trees line National Harbor’s waterfront promenade, often blooming earlier than the Yoshino trees around the Tidal Basin—offering a quieter, earlier opportunity to enjoy vibrant pink blossoms.

Sip Sakura‑Inspired Cocktails Across the Resort

Many of the resort’s dining outlets debut limited‑time cherry blossom cocktails, including the Cherry Blossom Spritz at Belvedere Bar, Blooming Margarita at Harbor Social, and Sakura Ume at The Whiskey Revolution.

Sample Capital Confectionery’s Spring Dessert Collection

The resort’s award‑winning pastry team unveils whimsical cherry blossom desserts, from macarons and gelato to Sakura Cheesecake and Matcha Mousse, complemented by handcrafted, seasonal display windows.

Savor the Cherry Blossom Princess Cake at Old Hickory Steakhouse

Old Hickory Steakhouse introduces a refined, blossom‑inspired Cherry Blossom Princess Cake, offering an elegant seasonal finish to spring dining.

For more information on cherry blossom experiences, seasonal packages, and spring events at Gaylord National, visit gaylordnational.com.