Every spring, Congressional Cemetery blooms with new life as we welcome the reawakening of our environmental treasures, including several species of DC's iconic cherry blossom trees! These beautiful spring hallmarks punctuate every spring in DC with their stunning beauty. While typically associated with the tidal basin, Congressional Cemetery has dozens of beloved cherry blossoms from several different species, including Yoshino, Kanzan, and Okame trees. Truly, our cherry blossoms hold a special place in our hearts.
In celebration of our environment and the return of spring, please join us on April 12, 2026 at 9:00 AM for the Cherry Blossom 5k at Congressional Cemetery. Enjoy a beautiful and invigorating run (or walk!) inside the cemetery in the company of some of our our beloved cherry trees! All proceeds from the race go to furthering our non-profit mission, including environmental preservation. Come and support the cemetery and our cherry blossoms this spring!
Now returning for its third year, we are happy to announce a few changes including:
-A slightly changed race course! We have made some small adjustments to our course. Our USATF Recertification has been submitted and is pending final approval, which will be completed by race day. We will update this page with the new map at that time!
-Every 5K race hosted by Congressional Cemetery will include a 5K t-shirt, including the Cherry Blossom 5K, if you register by the deadline of March 24!
Historic Congressional Cemetery was founded in 1807. It is located at 1801 E Street SE in Washington, D.C. Many famous and notable U.S. residents are interred in Congressional Cemetery, including many Congressmen who died while in office; those Congressmen who passed away in office between 1833 and 1876 are represented by Benjamin Latrobe’s iconic cenotaphs. Congressional Cemetery is still an active burial ground, taking new interments. There are currently over 70,000 burials on 35 acres. The cemetery is also a dog-walking park, with K-9 Corps membership fees helping to sustain the Cemetery.