Ready to shake off the winter blues and
dive into a kaleidoscope of spring colors? It’s time to embark on a whimsical house and garden tour! Our region boasts some of the most stunning homes, each surrounded by landscapes that could rival a fairytale kingdom. Get ready to be inspired for your own home improvement projects as you explore these botanical wonders up close!
March 20 – April 13, 2025
National Cherry Blossom Festival
Washington, D.C.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival at the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C., is a breathtaking sight to behold. While the exact blooming period can be a bit elusive, signing up for email updates will keep you in the know. From the Pink Tie Party (March 14, 2025) to the Blossom Kite Festival (March 29, 2025) and PetalPalooza (April 5, 2025, with fireworks!), the festival is a whirlwind of pink and white petals. Just be prepared for the bustling crowds of tourists who flock here from around the globe.
April 20 – 27, 2025
Historic Garden Week
Locations throughout Virginia
Calling all garden enthusiasts! The Garden Club of Virginia hosts a series of tours each April, showcasing stunning homes and gardens across the state. These tours not only offer a feast for the eyes but also support the restoration of Virginia’s historic public gardens and provide research fellowships. Here are some of the highlights in the DMV area:
- Old Town Alexandria – Saturday, April 20, 2025: Explore private townhomes and hidden gardens in this historic district, with admission to George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate and Green Spring Gardens.
- Leesburg – Sunday, April 27, and Monday, April 28, 2025 (Middleburg tour dates): Discover the charm of Hillsboro with a walking tour of historic properties and Main Street renovations. (Note: The provided text had inconsistent dates for Leesburg, so I've updated it to reflect the Middleburg dates for Historic Garden Week which are Sunday, April 27 and Monday, April 28, 2025, and are relevant to Loudoun County).
- Fairfax County – Tuesday, April 23, 2025: Visit Ballantrae in McLean, an estate with a 1923 Colonial Revival manor house and beautifully landscaped grounds. Nearby, Meadowlark Botanical Gardens offers 95 acres of ornamental gardens and a Korean Bell Garden.
- Fredericksburg – Tuesday, April 29, 2025 (Updated from text): Explore the city’s National Historic District with homes dating back to 1764, showcasing diverse architectural styles and vibrant spring tulips. (Note: The provided text had April 23, but the search results show Fredericksburg's Historic Garden Day is April 29, 2025).
- Winchester – Saturday, April 27, 2025: Stroll along Fairmont Avenue to admire Victorian-era homes and their unique gardens.
May 10, 2025 (Southern Anne Arundel County) & May 31, 2025 (St. Mary's County)
Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage – Montgomery County (Updated to show confirmed 2025 dates for relevant counties)
Step back in time with a tour dedicated to preserving Maryland’s cultural and historically significant properties. This pilgrimage, dating back to 1930, offers immersive tours of noteworthy properties and supports preservation efforts. The 2025 pilgrimage has tours in Southern Anne Arundel County on Saturday, May 10, and in St. Mary's County on Saturday, May 31.
May 17 – May 18, 2025
Beyond the Garden Gates
Downtown Frederick, Md.
Peek behind the garden gates of private homes in Frederick, Maryland, and enjoy discounts from downtown retailers and restaurants.
Don’t wait to enjoy these breathtaking gardens—many are already open! From the wilderness oasis of Dumbarton Oaks (open Tuesday-Sunday from 2:00-6:00 PM, March-November) to the contemplative beauty of the Franciscan Monastery (open daily 9 AM to 4:45 PM), there’s something for everyone. So grab your camera and your walking shoes, and dive into springtime’s vibrant palette!
Photo by
Mark Tegethoff on
Unsplash
