Cherry blossoms near peak bloom in Washington, D.C

Cherry blossom season is here in Washington, D.C. Thousands of pink and white flowers are starting to bloom as the peak bloom period approaches. The National Cherry Blossom Festival is underway, running for four weeks. This annual event celebrates the beautiful blossoms with art, music, food, and more. The cherry trees were a gift from Japan, and they bloom around the Tidal Basin, enhancing the views near famous landmarks like the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and the Washington Monument. The National Park Service tracks when the trees reach "peak bloom.” This happens when 70% of the flowers on the Yoshino cherry trees are open. Peak bloom usually occurs between late March and early April. In 2025, it is expected to occur earlier than average, between March 28 and March 31. As of March 21, the cherry trees have reached stage 5, which is the last stage before peak bloom. The blossoms are just about ready to open, and excitement is building for this beautiful sight. The Cherry Blossom Festival features many free events that honor the city’s culture and history. The festival draws over 1.5 million visitors each year, highlighting activities such as a kite festival and a parade. Jeff Reinbold, the superintendent of National Mall and Memorial Parks, emphasized the importance of appreciating and protecting the cherry trees. He encourages festival attendees to be good stewards and help preserve these natural treasures for the future.