Next to cherry blossoms, nothing heralds the arrival of spring in Washington, DC, like the annual Flower Mart on the grounds of the Washington National Cathedral. A combined floral celebration and outdoor spring festival, Flower Mart has been delighting Washingtonians and visitors every spring for more than 75 years. Held on the first full weekend in May, Flower Mart has something for everyone: floral displays sponsored by various embassies and their floral designers; sales of plants, herbs, food, and gifts; live entertainment; games and activities for children; and rides on an antique carousel.
Each year, Flower Mart honors a different country whose ambassador serves as the honorary chair. The food, culture, arts and crafts of that nation are featured.
The days of Flower Mart are among the few times each year when the central tower of the Cathedral is open for visitors. Purchase a ticket to climb to the top of the Cathedral’s 300-foot tower where you will enjoy the view from one of the highest spots in D.C. With 333 steps, it’s a rigorous climb (and not for those who are afraid of heights), but along the way you will see a demonstration of the bells and learn about the architecture of the Cathedral.
More earthly delights can be found by strolling the 59 acres that make up the Cathedral Close. Pick up a self-guided garden tour flyer in the Herb Cottage Gift Shop. Highlights include the Bishop’s Garden and Olmsted Woods, a five-acre oak and beech forest, named for landscape designer Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr. Flower Mart is sponsored by All Hallows Guild, which uses the proceeds to maintain the Cathedral’s grounds and gardens.
Travel Tips
Flower Mart is held rain or shine. Expect crowds and consider using Metrorail.
The 2022 Flower Mart is scheduled for May 6-7, 2022
For more information, visit https://allhallowsguild.org/programs/flower-mart/.
Travel InformationFlower Mart at the Washington National Cathedral Hours: Admission: Free. However, there is a fee for some of the activities. Parking: Limited parking is available in the Cathedral’s underground parking garage. More information… Metrorail: Shuttle buses run from the Tenelytown-American University stop on the Red line. More information… |
Nearby Attractions
Washington National Cathedral
National Zoo
Suggested Tours
Old Town Trolley Tour
How can apply for food vendors.
I want to apply for a booth selling garden flower cards .I will like to know the procedure?
You will need to contact All Hallows Guild or the National Cathedral to answer your question. The information page for this event from All Hallows Guild is: https://www.allhallowsguild.org/Flower-Mart/contacts-general-information
Do you think this would be suitable for middle school kids,
I have two buses in DC on the 3rd and they would like to
visit the festival?
The festival has activities and vendors for all age groups. There are rides, climbing walls, games, food, vendors, and of course flowers. The rides, food and vendors cost money, so they would need to have spending money. While there, the kids could also tour the Cathedral, and view the free performances.
Where do I find information about an application to have a booth at the Flower Mart, 2013?
Thank you, debbie
Hi Debbie-
Fill out a vendor inquiry form at: https://www.allhallowsguild.org/programs/flower-mart/participate/vendor-inquiry-form