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 14 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 to the Blossom Kite Festival and PetalPalooza, 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 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: 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 21, and Monday, April 22: Discover the charm of Hillsboro with a walking tour of historic properties and Main Street renovations.
• Fairfax County – Tuesday, April 23: 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 23: Explore the city’s National Historic District with homes dating back to 1764, showcasing diverse architectural styles and vibrant spring tulips.
• Winchester – Saturday, April 27: Stroll along Fairmont Avenue to admire Victorian-era homes and their unique gardens.

May 18 Maryland House and Garden Pilgrimage – Montgomery County 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.

May 18 – May 19 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 to the contemplative beauty of the Franciscan Monastery, 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