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Seeing the cherry blossoms in Washington, DC bloom has long been on my bucket list and I was so fortunate to be able to check it off a few years ago! Each spring these pale pink and white blossoms bloom on trees that were a gift from Japan in 1912. The cherry blossoms reached peak bloom on March 17, 2024.
The gift consisted of 3,020 trees in 12 varieties and today there are 3,800 trees with two varieties being the most common: the Yoshino Cherry and the Kwanzan Cherry. The National Capital Parks-Central, specifically the Tree Crew, is responsible for caring for these beautiful cherry trees.
There are mostly Yoshino Cherry trees around the Tidal Basin and on the Washington Monument Grounds with a small number of Akebono Cherry trees (which are a mutation of the Yoshino cherry tree) mixed in.
The Kwanzan Cherry trees mainly grow in East Potomac Park and bloom approximately two weeks later than the Yoshino trees. Also in East Potomac Park, you’ll find Fugenzo and Shirofugen trees.
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The National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC takes place March 20-April 13, 2025 to coincide with the peak bloom window. The festival culminates with The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade on April 13. The ten-block-long parade is a ticketed event with balloons, floats, and bands that is held rain or shine.
Peak bloom is defined as when 70% of the blossoms are open on the Yoshino cherry trees that surround the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC. The peak blooming period is the optimal time for viewing cherry blossoms, attracting larger crowds, especially on weekends. Peak bloom can last from just a few days to as long as two weeks and is dependent on the weather conditions.
Peak bloom is hard to predict more than 10 days in advance, so this can make planning a trip to Washington, DC to see the cherry blossoms difficult. Keep an eye on the Bloom Watch page for the most up-to-date information regarding peak bloom.
Note that crowds are higher on weekends and during peak bloom, so aim to go early on a weekday morning to try and avoid the crush.
Fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Dulles International Airport (IAD), or Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) to visit the Washington, DC area. Most major domestic airlines and a large variety of international airlines fly into the DC area.
The cherry blossom trees are located around the Tidal Basin in West Potomac Park, in East Potomac Park (Hains Point), and on the Washington Monument grounds, which are all National Park Service locations. Parking in the area can be a challenge, so public transportation is your best bet. Depending on where you’re coming from consider options like Capital Bikeshare, DC Streetcar, or the Cherry Blossom Water Taxi by City Cruises in addition to typical options like bus and rail.
Navigating the National Cherry Blossom Festival can be a bit challenging due to the large crowds and occasional road closures. The Tidal Basin Welcome Area is a popular hub for visitors and is easily accessible by foot or bike. The National Park Service offers a convenient shuttle service from the National Mall to the Tidal Basin, making it easier to get around. Alternatively, you can take the Metrorail to the Smithsonian Station and enjoy a scenic walk to the Tidal Basin. Planning ahead and allowing extra time for travel will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable festival experience.
Located just about two miles from the Tidal Basin, the Westin Washington, DC City Center is a modern, Marriot-branded hotel conveniently located near DC’s popular attractions. With an on-site restaurant, bar, coffee shop, and wellness center, the hotel has all the amenities you need for the perfect stay!
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is brimming with events and activities that cater to visitors of all ages. Highlights include the lively National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, the bustling Tidal Basin Welcome Area, and the colorful Blossom Kite Festival. Strolling around the Tidal Basin, you can immerse yourself in the beauty of the cherry blossom trees. The festival also features a variety of food and drink vendors, offering everything from traditional Japanese cuisine to delightful cherry blossom-themed treats. Don’t miss the chance to tour the National Mall and visit iconic landmarks such as the Korean War Veterans Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery, adding a historical touch to your festival experience.
The easiest (and free) thing to do is to stroll around the Tidal Basin and Washington Monument grounds and take in the blossoms. The Tidal Basin is a popular picnic spot, so pack a basket and spend the day among the trees with snacks in hand.
For a different view of the blossoms, consider a Cherry Blossom dinner cruise along the Potomac or a Cherry Blossom Bike Tour.
Explore the “Petal Porches”, where residents decorate the porches and yards in hues of pink and cherry blossoms. There’s an annual competition with online voting and prizes for the winners.
If art is your thing, check out Art in Bloom, giant cherry blossom sculptures located in all eight wards of Washington, DC. These large-scale art installations are painted by local artists and make for a fun little scavenger hunt. Post a sculpture picture on X (formerly Twitter) or Instagram using #artinbloom and you may be eligible to win prizes from the festival.
The dates for the 2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival are not yet available.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is a vibrant three-week celebration held annually in Washington, D.C., commemorating the generous gift of 3,000 cherry blossom trees from Japan to the United States in 1912. Organized by the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc., a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, this festival is a testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations. The festival is packed with a variety of events, exhibits, and performances that highlight the beauty of the cherry blossoms and the rich cultural ties between the U.S. and Japan. From the dazzling parade and spectacular fireworks to concerts and special exhibits, the festival offers something for everyone to enjoy.
The cherry blossom trees that grace the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C. are a beloved attraction, especially during the National Cherry Blossom Festival. These trees, a heartfelt gift from Japan, symbolize the blossoming friendship between the two countries. The most cherished variety is the Yoshino cherry tree, renowned for its delicate pale pink flowers. The National Park Service meticulously cares for these trees, ensuring they remain a stunning sight for visitors. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply a nature lover, the cherry blossom trees provide a picturesque backdrop for unforgettable moments.
The peak bloom date of the cherry blossom trees is a highly anticipated event, marking the day when 70% of the blossoms are in full bloom. This date varies each year, influenced by local temperatures during the winter and early spring. The National Park Service diligently tracks the annual peak bloom date and provides timely updates on the festival’s website. For the most accurate bloom forecasts, visitors can also follow the festival’s social media accounts. Staying informed will help you plan your visit to witness the cherry blossoms at their most breathtaking.
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