National Cathedral's Flower Mart Offers Way More Than Just Flowers

Tulips and daffodils are taking over D.C. just in time for the annual Flower Mart at the National Cathedral. Don't let your allergies scare you -- this festival also includes sightseeing, food, music, a massive book sale and activities for kids.

You'll find the Flower Mart on the grounds of the cathedral Friday, May 1 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Parking will be available in the cathedral garage, and shuttle buses will run from Tenleytown Metro station. In addition, some 30-series Metrobuses and the Old Town Trolley also stop in front of the cathedral.

Sponsored by the All Hallows Guild, Flower Mart 2015 will showcase grand floral displays inside the cathedral and provide a variety of activities:

Celebrating Asia
This year's Flower Mart spotlights Asian flowers and culture. More than 23 Asian countries, as well as Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office and Hong Kong SAR, will participate with indigenous flower displays, ethnic foods, and traditional music and dance performances.

Grotesque Walk
This is a new feature for 2015. Along the outdoor gutter walkway between the two west towers, visitors can get a close-up look at the cathedral's whimsical and creative grotesques and gargoyles (including a Darth Vader grotesque for those anxiously awaiting "The Force Awakens"). This is $5 per ticket on Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Cathedral Tower Climb
Prepare accordingly: This climb is 333 steps up to the bell-ringing chamber, 300 feet above ground. Bring your sneakers on Friday from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. for $7.50 and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (except noon) for $10.

International Floral Displays
Over 25 countries will exhibit indigenous flower arrangements created by foreign embassies to showcase their countries' flowers, histories and cultures. 2015 is expected to break the record for the most floral creations displayed in the nave of the Cathedral.

Mother's Day Shopping
Still need a gift for Mom? Flower Mart falls one week before Mother's Day, and will include more than 80 unique boutiques offering artisan-crafted jewelry, clothing, art and plants.

Book Sale
Brose more than 10,000 books beneath a huge tent on the cathedral grounds. You'll find multiple genres of both fiction and nonfiction -- and at a bargain. Most books are priced between 50 cents and $4.

Iron Florist
New this year is a competition to see who has the greenest thumb, as four local florists compete. The Iron Florist Competition is Saturday from 11 to 11:45 a.m.

Kids' Corner
Kid-friendly activities include an antique carousel, dance and music performances, a puppet show, face-painting, and a climbing wall -- to name a few.

Food
Booths will line the grounds, offering something for any palate. You'll find funnel cakes and ice cream, hot dogs and burgers, as well as D.C. favorites like Ben's Chili Bowl. Continuing with the ode to Asia, Thai, Japanese and Chinese cuisine will also be featured.

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