Another catch-up post in service of my New Year’s resolution! I can always find new things to report about these two events, which coincide each year. In 2026, the Sakura Matsuri is scheduled for April 11th and 12th, while the Blessing of the Fleet will be held on April 11th, just a block away.
There isn’t much of an overlap of attendees, but I find both events equally attractive. They can’t really be compared – one is blocks-long and attracts thousands, while the other is an intimate event with an audience of those with a connection to the U.S. Navy – but both have fascinations for a foodie.
Sakura Matsuri
Walking toward the Matsuri from the Metro stop, you could catch a glimpse of the Cherry Blossom Parade. A cheery (cherry) sight on a gray day!
There was a long row of Japanese cultural organizations at the Matsuri. You could go origami fishing at the Washington Japanese Heritage Center; try your hand at a ball-cup game; say hello to the Japanese campus of Temple University (my alma mater, although I attended the boring old Philadelphia location); and goggle at the Japan Rail Modelers of Washington DC’s setup, which included an eclectic selection of kaiju menacing the trains and buildings. Their business card features a monster swallowing a train, with the legend, “Got shinkansen?”
If you by chance forgot to wear your kimono or happi coat, you could buy one.
The crowd was full of cosplayers and other colorful characters. Some were eating.
Which brings me to another great attraction of the Matsuri: the food offerings. There was the Taste of Japan section,
The sake tasting tent,
and the koji demonstration. This year there was, alas, no big hunk of meat, but a tutorial on making kimchee, along with many helpful suggestions for the creative uses of ferments. One can add koji to chicken broth to make pho, and shrub makes a nice vinaigrette. There was a sales table to help you actualize your koji experience.
Blessing of the Fleet
Every year at the Navy Memorial, the waters rise. The ceremony is accomplished by smartly-turned-out sailors who empty canisters of water from each of the seven seas and the Great Lakes into the fountain. On cue, the subdued cascades rise to full height and capacity, symbolizing the renewal of the blessing for protection of “those in peril on the sea.”
It’s an occasion of fellowship, patriotism (the well-deserved kind), and refreshment. Specifically, Navy bean soup, cupcakes, and themed cookies. Also, goodies courtesy of the White House Mess, which is staffed by Navy personnel.
The ceremony was moved inside last year because of the threat of inclement weather. It was still impressive.
And on the way out, I noticed some folks, who were not deterred by the weather, taking pictures next to the Lone Sailor statue. Another brand of cosplay?
Here’s hoping for fair breezes and following seas for this year’s event!