WASHINGTON (DC News Now) -- It was a full house at the Warner Theatre for Saturday's annual National Cherry Blossom Festival opening ceremonies. Various Japanese performers took to the stage for the first time in the District to entertain the crowd, including music, and puppets. "I felt so muc h love between the two cities," said D.C.'s Maricar Donato. "And I really look forward to this year's 113th anniversary of the gift of friendship." The festival celebrates the 3,000 cherry trees given to Washington, DC by Tokyo in 1912. "Like the cherry trees, Japan, U.S. relationship continues to flourish," said Japan's Ambassador to the U.S. Shigeo Yamada. He also came bearing gifts, as the ambassador announced Japan would donate 250 more cherry blossom trees to the District next year to mark the nation's 250th anniversary. MAP: List of National Cherry Blossom Festival events "They've also carried an incredible message of new beginnings, hope and renewal, and pure joy that has brought us all together to celebrate each year," said Diana Mayhew, president and CEO of the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The celebration not only drew people from around the DMV. "It's amazing. We traveled up here from Florida just for this," said Carey DePree of Ft. Myers, who made the trip with her daughter, Alyssa. The National Cherry Blossom Festival ends April 13. ...read more read less