In Washington, D.C., the arrival of cherry blossoms means that tourists are on the horizon. But don’t let the crowds prevent you from seeing one of the most beautiful sights in the nation’s capital. Below is a list of events happening during this year’s festival.

Tidal Basin Paddle Boat Rides
Date: Now through April 12
Time: 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Location: Tidal Basin Paddle Boat House, 1501 Maine Ave. S.W.
Cost: $8/hour for a 2-person boat, $16/hour for a 4-person boat. Reservations can be made online at
www.tidalbasinpaddleboats.com

Blossoms by Bike
Date: Now through April 12
Time: Weekday tours at 3 p.m; weekend tours at 9:30 a.m., noon and 3 p.m.
Location: Bike and Roll Kiosk, 1100 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W. (rear plaza on 12th St.)
Cost: $32 includes bike rental and guided tour. Reservations can be made online at www.bikethesites.com

River Blossoms Tours
Date: Now through April 12
Time: Weekends: 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.; weekdays: noon and 2 p.m.
Location: Washington Marina, 1300 Maine Ave. S.W.
Cost: $22. Reservations can be made online at www.DC-cruises.com
This 90-minute guided tour allows participants to view the cherry blossoms and monuments by boat.

Cherry Blossom Photo Safaris
Date: Now through April 12
Time: Varies by tour – see Web site for details
Location: Varies by tour
Cost: Varies by tour, starting at $59/person. Tickets can be purchased at www.washingtonphotosafari.com
Led by Washington Post photographers and photo editors, these tours give amateur photographers the chance to take pictures of cherry blossoms and then receive instruction from the tour guides.

Cultural Performances at the Tidal Basin State
Date: Now through April 12
Time: Noon, daily
Location: Jefferson Memorial
Cost: Free

Cherry Blossom Lantern Walks
Dates: April 4, 5, 8, 11, 12
Time: 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Location: Tidal Basin Welcome Area (near the paddle boats), 1500 Maine Ave S.W.
Cost: Free
Wear comfortable shoes for this evening walk led by a National Parks Service ranger.

Cherry Blossom River Teas
Dates: April 4, 5, 11, 12
Time: Tours depart at noon and 2 p.m.; seating is limited, so reservations can be made online at www.capitalyacht.com.
Location: Washington Marina, 1300 Maine Ave. S.W.
Cost: $65
English tea is served aboard a yacht that cruises the Potomac River. A great option if your parents are in town.