Japanese Stone Lantern Lighting Ceremony (Photos)


The Cherry Blossom Festival Japanese Stone Lantern Lighting Ceremony celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Gift of Trees, took place on Sunday, April 8 at the Tidal Basin. The lantern was carved 360 years ago. It was first lit in 1651 and was given to the City of Washington as a gift in 1954, symbolizing friendship and peace between Japan and the United States. The lantern is lit only once each year during the National Cherry Blossom Festival. See photos of the ceremony by clicking on the photo icons below. (All photos by Jeff Malet)

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