12:00 pm - 4:00 pm: The Yokocho at Anthem Row

The Yokocho at Anthem Row is an immersive cultural event designed to introduce Washington, DC residents and visitors to the rich traditions of Japan, with a modern twist. Rooted in the spirit of "yokocho," the bustling alleyways of Japan filled with izakayas, bars, and eateries, this event reimagines that experience by incorporating dynamic performances, interactive food experiences, and a visual spectacle that enhances community gathering.

One of the event's most striking features is the debut of a Giant Daruma, a traditional Japanese symbol of perseverance and good fortune. For many attendees, the daruma may be an unfamiliar concept, so to deepen cultural appreciation, guests will receive mini darumas along with an explanation of their significance as a takeaway gift.

Throughout the afternoon, attendees will be treated to live performances that showcase Japan's vibrant artistic traditions. The lineup includes:

Mark H Taiko - A powerful taiko drumming ensemble that blends traditional rhythms with contemporary performance styles to create an exhilarating, high-energy experience.
Atelier Kanawa - A captivating Spring Kimono Fashion Show highlighting intricate cherry blossom designs, followed by a kimono dressing demonstration showcasing the artistry of tying an Obi sash. This activation will also feature a classical Japanese dance performance, adding an elegant, historic touch to the event.
Aerial Performance - A breathtaking display of movement and artistry that introduces an unexpected but mesmerizing element to the Yokocho experience.
Les the DJ - Closing out the event with a lively, crowd-pleasing mix of K-POP and global sounds, ensuring an energetic and engaging atmosphere until the very end.

Simultaneously, guests will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on culinary experiences:

Sushi-Making with Love Makoto - A one-time experience for 26 participants to learn the art of sushi-making from a master chef, with the added benefit of enjoying their creations.
Sake Tasting in the Westin Courtyard - A self-guided tasting where participants will explore different varieties of sake and receive a keepsake sake set.

While the event is free and open to the public, the sushi-making and sake experiences will be available for a nominal fee (with all proceeds going to the DowntownDC foundation). Every other activation, performance, and cultural experience is designed to be inclusive, inviting all attendees to engage with Japanese culture in a meaningful and celebratory way.

The Yokocho at Anthem Row is more than just an event-it's a moment to bring people together, spark curiosity, and create lasting cultural connections in the heart of Washington, DC.

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12:00 pm - 4:00 pm: Cherry Blossom Daruma at Anthem Row

Spring is knocking and Downtown D.C. is ready to bloom! The Cherry Blossom Daruma at Anthem Row - a 10-foot-wide Japanese daruma doll aerial art installation adorned with intricate cherry blossom motifs-is set to wow and welcome visitors of all ages to experience spring in the city for the 2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival.

On Sunday, March 23 from 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Anthem Row will transform into a one-of-a-kind Japanese Yokocho alleyway, featuring a fashion show, Japanese cuisine flavors, and of course, the awe-inspiring Cherry Blossom Daruma sculpture-designed by multidisciplinary artist My Ly. Be sure to capture and share the massive symbol of beauty, renewal, and perseverance using the hashtag

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1:00 pm - 3:00 pm: Beyond the Studio - Cherry Blossom Embroidery with Capitol Stitch Co

Local DC maker Miri Artyukhina of Capitol Stich Co comes to SAAM to lead an embroidery workshop inspired by DC's favorite flowers, cherry blossoms. Learn embroidery basics and all the skills required to create a festive spring artwork. Participants must register by 7 p.m. ET on March 13. Tickets will go on sale Monday, February 17 at 1 p.m.

Tidal Basin Welcome Area and ANA Stage

Witness peak bloom at the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC, while also experiencing entertainment representing Japanese, American, and other cultures!

Live performances among the blossoms at the Tidal Basin celebrate the longstanding friendship between the U.S. and Japan with a dynamic, cross-cultural mix of American, Japanese, and other performing arts. This year, we are expecting over 100 performances on the ANA Stage. Get ready to experience a variety of genres: Americana,  Bluegrass, Country, Jazz, Pop, RandB, and Rock. Expect a diverse array of dance styles and performances, including Japanese, Eastern European, Colombian, Indian, Flamenco, Tap and Clogging, Zumba, and double dutch!

Performance Schedule:

12:00 pm - 12:30 pm: Kuchipudi Dance Academy
12:50 pm - 01:50 pm: Wild Planes
02:10 pm - 03:00 pm: Mama Moon and the Rump Shakers
03:20 pm - 04:20 pm: Red Reyne
04:40 pm - 05:10 pm: The Capital Hearings