Missouri Marks 150th Anniversary of the Pony Express

No event In American history has captured the imagination of young and old alike more than the Pony Express.

This year marks the 150th anniversary of the Pony Express. On April 3, 1860, a lone rider, Johnny Fry, left on horseback from the gates of one of the nation’s most historic landmarks, the Pikes Peak Stables in St. Joseph, Missouri. Today the stables continue to stand as a tribute to the legend and legacy of the Pony Express and its enduring era. Carrying saddlebags filled with nation’s hopes and dreams, the riders traveled 2,000 miles to Sacramento, California. The Central Overland and California Pikes Peak Express Company carried letters and telegrams for 19 months proving the train and pony with riders could make the trip over 1,966 miles in 10 to 14 days.

St. Joseph will recapture the excitement of those days when it celebrates that first ride on April 1, 2 and 3. Among the celebrations will be a Buffalo Bill Look-Alike Contest, a Chuck Wagon Dinner, a Pony Express Bridle and Saddle Parade and the Sesquicentennial Banquet, 6:30 p.m. There will be various events throughout the year.

The Pony Express National Museum in St. Joseph will be at the core of the celebrations. Its state-of-the-art exhibits illustrate the need, creation, operation and termination of the Pony Express. Whatever your age, you’re sure to be captivated by the stories and images on an era long passed.

For more information about top events in Missouri, take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Missouri at www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-missouri.html

Or, for more details and information take a look at the official web site for St. Joseph at www.stjomo.com/

The Best Way to See the Cherry Blossoms

Bike and Roll Alexandria, located in the heart of Old Town Alexandria, will for the first time offer their Blossoms by Bike River Ride during the 2010 National Cherry Blossom Festival from March 27 to April 11).

Celebrate the arrival of spring with this three-hour ride and see the natural beauty of the Nation’s Capital at its peak. The tour will take you along the scenic Mount Vernon Trail where you will take in stunning views of the blossoms from across the Potomac River. It continues into DC and around the Tidal Basin where you will see the blossoms up close and learn the history of these beautiful gifts before heading back to Alexandria.

Blossoms by Bike River Ride is a moderate level ride and is recommended for those 13 years or above. The cost is $42 for adults and includes bike rental, helmet, water and guide.

Blossoms by Bike and Blossoms by Bike River Ride are Official Programs of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is Washington DC's and the Nation's greatest springtime celebration. The 2010 Festival features signature events, daily cultural performances, art exhibits, sport competitions and more. The National Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the 98th anniversary of the gift of the cherry blossom trees and the enduring friendship between the citizens of the United States and Japan.

For more information about The National Cherry Blossom Festival, take a look at the feature article at www.topeventsusa.com/national-cherry-blossom-festival-dc.html

For more information about top events in Washington DC, take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Washington DC at www.topeventsusa.com/state-events-dc.html

For schedules and information visit www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org