WASHINGTON (7News) -- It's getting colder in the DMV. But with the cold comes anticipation of the spring and one of D.C.'s biggest annual events: the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

Organizers for the 2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival announced their plans for the roughly three-week-long celebration on Thursday, many of which will include nods to America's 250th birthday. The announcement included speeches from D.C. officials and Japanese representatives.

The nod to America's 250th is notable in the official artwork designed by Detroit-native Tim Yanke, called "America in Bloom." The Americana-style piece is set to go on display until February at The Washington Harbour ice rink in Georgetown, then appear around the festival starting late March.

Another notable change is with the opening ceremony, which will be hosted for the first time at the DAR Constitution Hall on March 21, 2026, officials said.

The Blossom Kite Festival, scheduled for March 28, 2026, will host a "Red, White, and Bloom" themed competition, also to acknowledge America's 250th Birthday.

Switching gears to the celebration's largest event - the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade. Organizers said to look out for performances from artists including American Idol Season 7 runner-up David Archuleta, American Idol Season 23 finalist Gabby Samone, and 80's funk band Club Nouveau.

As for the iconic Pink Tie Party, prepare your best runway apparel, as the 2026 theme for the event is "Art of Fashion."

Officials said it's also expanding its City in Bloom initiative, meaning more cherry blossom art around the city.