Credits: https://www.thebloom.com/

Spring is here — and Winchester, VA is ready to celebrate.
The 98th Annual Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival is back from April 25–May 4, 2025, bringing pink-and-green magic, celebrity sightings, parades, wine fests, and family fun.

Here’s your essential guide to “The Bloom.”

The Big Picture

• What: 10 days, 50 events, 250,000 visitors

• When: April 25 to May 4, 2025

• Where: Winchester, Virginia (1.5 hours from D.C.)

• Theme: Food, fun, fanfare, and flowers everywhere

️ Key Dates

• April 25–26: Bloomin’ Wine Fest

• May 2: Firefighters’ Parade 80’s Dance Party

• May 3: Grand Feature Parade Country Music Party

• May 4: Closing ceremonies final carnival day

Must-See Events

• Firefighters’ Parade (May 2): Honoring heroes, fire trucks galore

• Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parade (May 3): Floats, bands, celebrities, and Queen Shenandoah herself

• Bloomin’ Wine Fest (April 25–26): Virginia wines outdoor concerts

• Country Music Party (May 3): Drew Baldridge live

Celebrity Sightings

• Alfonso Ribeiro: Grand Marshal (expect the Carlton dance! )

• Ryan Zimmerman: Washington Nationals legend ⚾

• Robert Carradine: Revenge of the Nerds star

• Tony Ferraris: Real-life firefighter and actor

• Washington Nationals Racing Presidents: Mascots and fun

Family-Friendly Fun

• Apple Blossom Carnival: Ferris wheels, funnel cakes, and classic rides

• Kids’ Bloomin’ Mile & 10K: Morning races for all ages

• Mascots at Parades: High-fives from George, Abe, Teddy, and friends

Where to Eat

• Old Town Winchester: Union Jack, Brewbaker’s, El Centro, Violino

• Festival Food: Apple pie funnel cakes, crab cake sandwiches, BBQ

• Local Tips: Reservations highly recommended; pack your appetite

Where to Stay

• Downtown: George Washington Hotel (festival HQ)

• Nearby Hotels: Hilton Garden Inn, Tru by Hilton, Spark by Hilton

• Pro Tip: Book early — Winchester fills up fast!

How to Get There

• Driving: I-66 W to I-81 N (exit 313B or 315)

• Timing: Leave early — festival traffic can get heavy

• Parking: Use city garages ($25 flat rate) or nearby lots; plan to walk ‍♂️

Smart Tips

• Comfy Shoes: Brick sidewalks = not high heel friendly

• Pink & Green Everything: Join the town’s official colors!

• Arrive Early: For best parade spots and Wine Fest access

• Bring Cash: Some food vendors and pop-up events are cash only

• Stay Late: Nighttime lights at the carnival are pure magic ✨

️ The Bottom Line

The Bloom is pure small-town Americana with a Hollywood twist.
Between the parades, wine, concerts, and carnival rides, there’s something for everyone.

Come for the music, stay for the apple dumplings, and leave with unforgettable memories.

✅ Ready to Plan Your Trip?

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