Updated: March 30, 2026 at 6:02 p.m.
The last traces of winter linger in the air, but the city is beginning to shift — jackets come off by midday, cherry blossoms are reaching bloom and students spill into Kogan Plaza in search of sunlight between classes.
April in the District feels like a turning point. The days stretch longer, the sidewalks grow busier and the promise of summer starts to settle in. Whether you’re counting down to the end of the semester or staying through the season, the city opens up this month, offering a mix of celebration, culture and time outdoors. Take advantage of everything the District has to offer this month — from springtime traditions to under-the-radar events — and make the most of April in D.C.
April 3: Washington Nationals Opening Day
Despite a disappointing past few seasons, the Washington Nationals offer more than just a sporting event. It’s a full day of burgers, ice cream, socializing and only half paying attention to the game.
This Friday marks opening day, with the Nationals taking on the Los Angeles Dodgers at Nationals Park. The pregame festivities include a $5 beer special, making it an easy way to kick off the season. After a week of cramming for tests and essays, settle in for an afternoon of military flyovers, an Armed Forces color guard and an American flag unfurling, as America 250 celebrations continue in the District.
April 10: America’s State Flowers: An America 250 Celebration
The U.S. Botanic Garden is kicking off its take on the nationwide celebration of America’s 250th birthday with an exhibit featuring the state flowers of all 50 states and five territories, spread throughout the garden. From Alabama’s camellia to Wyoming’s Indian paintbrush, the display highlights the range of plant life across the country.
Starting April 10, visitors can walk among magnolias and the District’s own “American Beauty” rose. For plant lovers or anyone looking to get an early start on 250 celebrations, the exhibit is free and open to the public.
April 11: National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade
Nothing kicks off spring festivities quite like a celebration of what makes D.C. this time of year so special: the cherry blossoms. Spanning 10 blocks along Constitution Avenue, just a short walk from the National Archives Building, the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade on April 11 marks the city’s official celebration of the bloom.
With colorful floats, marching bands from nearby counties and live performances from artists organizers have not yet announced, the annual event captures the energy of April in the District. Visitors can watch for free along the parade route, while reserved seating is available for clearer views, starting at $28 near the Washington Monument finale, $34 for performance seating and $45 for East End spots at the start of the parade.
April 16-26: Filmfest DC
Each April, Filmfest DC turns the city into a Letterboxd fan’s dream, with this year marking its 40th anniversary. Running from April 16 to 26, with events hosted at venues including the Embassy of France in D.C., the festival gives audiences the chance to see new documentaries and short films from both emerging and established filmmakers, including figures, like Morgan Freeman and Charlize Theron.
For all the movie buffs and aspiring directors, enjoy viewing stories from across the globe, opening and closing night showcases, filmmaker Q&As and panels that bring cinema to life. This year’s festival features the film Colours of Time, directed by French filmmaker Cédric Klapisch, which follows cousins who inherit a house in Normandy and retrace the lives of their ancestors. In an age of Netflix and Hulu, take a break from streaming to experience cinema in its traditional form and discover new and upcoming films on the big screen.
April 22-26: Smithsonian Craft Show
For anyone looking to embrace their artistic side, the Smithsonian Women’s Committee is hosting their annual Smithsonian Craft Show, showcasing handmade treasures from artists across the United States. The show will 120 contemporary artists, carefully selected and judged by Stefano Catalani, Sarah Darro and Namita Gupta Wiggers.
From April 22 through 26, visitors can explore ceramics, jewelry, furniture, metalwork and other designs from some of today’s most innovative artists. Whether you’re a collector or simply appreciate intricate craftsmanship, the show offers a chance to purchase one-of-a-kind pieces and discover emerging talent. Proceeds support the Smithsonian.
This article has been updated to correct the following:
The Hatchet incorrectly reported that the National Building Museum was hosting the Smithsonian Craft Show. The Smithsonian Women’s Committee will host the show. The Hatchet also incorrectly reported that Wayne Higby, Cristina Córdova and Carol Sauvion were slated to judge the show. Stefano Catalani, Sarah Darro and Namita Gupta Wiggers will judge. The Hatchet incorrectly reported that proceeds of the show will support the Smithsonian Women’s Committee. They will support the Smithsonian. We regret these errors.
