Diana Mayhew is executive director of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, which began in 1927 as an all volunteer organization. The Festival has grown into a spectacular two-week city-wide event that draws over a million people annually. Ms. Mayhew is a long-time resident of the DC area. She feels that Washington, DC has everything a person could ever want, including culture, history, and the feeling of a small town in such a prominent city. Diana is addicted to jelly beans and if she ever decides to change careers, she’d become a life coach or youth counselor to teenagers.

Enjoy the National Cherry Blossom Festival fireworks this weekend and parade next weekend. Find more Cherry Blossom events here!

Cultural Tourism DC asked some notable Washingtonians to share with us their favorite places or events that are special and unique to DC.

1. Tidal Basin – I love to take the paddle boats around the basin and watch people while they look at the cherry blossoms.
2. Tree Planting in the neighborhoods – I love celebrating from the festival to the neighborhoods with tree planting in all eight wards of the city. It’s like getting a present from each community when you meet the neighborhood volunteers, especially Anacostia Park, Petworth, and Adams Morgan.
3. The Lincoln Theatre – Such a cozy theatre for a large space, and allows for a very intimate setting. The crowds are always so engaging.
4. Panache Restaurant - Great tapas near 17th Street, fresh, local foods in very appealing and upscale atmosphere
5. SW Waterfront – I fell in love with the area when she worked there years ago. It’s great waterside promenade, the Seventh Street pier, along with an occasional boat ride, the area is wonderful.

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