Neighborhood Tree Planting Program
Since 2002, the National Cherry Blossom Festival has been committed to further enhancing the natural beauty of Washington, DC by planting new cherry trees in neighborhoods across the city. Annually, in collaboration with schools, civic and community groups throughout DC’s eight wards, and in partnership with Casey Trees, the Neighborhood Tree Planting Program, supported by Canon U.S.A., Inc., will once again plant new trees and educate groups about tree care and maintenance, too. In the past ten years, the Festival has successfully planted more than 350 trees in the District. Interested in learning more about the Neighborhood Tree Planting Program? Please contact Dennis Blackledge.
Centennial Tree Groves
In honor of the 100-year anniversary of the gift of trees, the Festival will continue the circle of giving and has committed to planting over 1,000 cherry trees in the coming years.
Arbor Day Foundation
The Festival and the Arbor Day Foundation have joined forces for an exciting contest in honor of the 100-year anniversary of the gift of trees: help determine America’s Favorite Flowering Cherry Tree! The online poll allows all Americans to participate in the festivities by casting a vote for one of three cherry tree finalists: Yoshino, Kwanzan, or Autumn Flowering. All three species are found at the Tidal Basin, but which will win the hearts of cherry tree lovers? Results of the contest will be announced on April 27, 2012, the final day of the National Cherry Blossom Festival and National Arbor Day.
You can also purchase a cherry tree for your home, or send a special Give a Tree greeting card with artwork from the 2011 Festival lets the recipient know a tree has been planted in a national forest in their honor. For just $5.95, give a gift that will grow and give back, helping the environment, beautifying landscapes, and preserving our forests.
