Spring Time! There is nothing more that indicates the start of spring like the sight of blooms and none more famous event than the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The first official festival was held in 1935 and it is now one of the most visited events in Washington, D.C.
Fun Facts
In Japan there is an ancient tradition called Hanami that occurs every spring to celebrate the bloom of the Sakura cherry trees. The American botanist David Fairchild visited Japan during the spring of 1902 and witnessed the beautiful cherry blossoms. He is accredited as the person who initiated the importing of the cherry trees to the United States. In 1912, over 3,000 Yosino cherry blossoms were gifted to the U.S. Capitol by the mayor of Tokyo, Yukio Ozaki.
Important Information
The festival runs from mid-March to mid-April. The average peak bloom date is April 4th, changing yearly based on weather conditions. The best viewing experience lasts between four and seven days after the peak bloom begins. One of the earliest blooms recorded was on March 15, 1990, while the latest recorded bloom was on April 18, 1958.
When is this year’s Peak Bloom prediction?
Peak Bloom is determined when 70% of the Yoshino cherry blossoms at the Tidal Basin are open. For 2023, the National Park Service has predicted peak bloom to occur between March 22nd and March 25th. The Washington Post’s Capital Weather Gang predicts peak bloom to occur between March 25th and March 29th. For more information visit The Cherry Blossom Watch official website.
Expert Tips
Bloom predictions are posted as early as February, however, accuracy improves as it gets closer to March. This may present as a challenge to plan a trip in advance, so booking flexible accommodations is key. Did you make it past the peak bloom? No worries! From our experience of visiting several times, it is better to visit slightly pass peak bloom than too soon. Although weather conditions can vary greatly every year, trees are still beautiful a week after peak bloom. It is important to note that the trees closest to the water typically bloom first, so you can explore further out and will still find many gorgeous and fluffy blossoms. When the petals begin to slowly fall off past peak bloom, it is a stunning and memorable visual experience. Children will also love walking under “snowing” flowers!
What to know before you go!
The festival calls for a lot of walking, so make sure to be prepared with supportive footwear and water bottles. Travel-friendly strollers and snacks are essential if traveling with children. It is important to know that public restrooms are very spread out around the Tidal Basin and its surrounding areas, so plan to walk for a while before reaching one. Parking is very limited, especially during the day of the parade. Public transportation is encouraged, and if driving, it is best to arrive very early in the day and use parking mobile applications such as SpotHero.
What else is there to do?
In addition to crossing off a bucket list item and taking in the beautiful scenery, there are several other fun things to do. Kicking off the festivities is the Pink Tie Party fundraiser. This is followed by the Opening Ceremony, a free event held at the Warner Theatre showcasing Japanese and American artists. Other events include the Blossom Kite Festival, Petalpalooza, and the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade. Additional information can be found here.
What is the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade?
The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade serves as the culmination of the festival and it is the most popular event. In addition to the giant balloons and elaborate floats, there are numerous bands and performers that make their way down the parade route. All ages will enjoy it! The event is free and very accessible for viewing anywhere along the ten block route. Do you know what else is free? All of the Smithsonian museums! Read through this guide to add museum visits to your trip.
Where is the best viewing location?
The best place to view the cherry blossoms is at the Tidal Basin. Not only does this provide the largest collection of trees, but there are endless beautiful sights to take in around the body of water. Most famous of these sights is the Jefferson Memorial, but the Tidal Basin is also home to the MLK Jr. Memorial, FDR Memorial, Japanese Pagoda, and Japanese Stone Lantern. The Japanese Pagoda in West Potomac Park (located next to the Tidal Basin and the FDR Memorial) was a gift from the mayor of Yokohama, Japan to symbolize the friendship between Japan and the United States. Another gift from Japan was the Japanese Stone Lantern. Originally a gift from the governor of Tokyo, the Japanese Stone Lantern is lit during the festivities by a Cherry Blossom Princess appointed by the Japanese embassy.
Photography Tips
The best time for photos (and to beat the large crowds) is either earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. Catching the sun rising or setting is ideal for the perfect lighting. Nighttime also provides unique photo opportunities, especially with the lightened up MLK or FDR memorials serving as a backdrop. Visiting Washington D.C. during the National Cherry Blossom Festival should be a top event for anyone traveling to the area. We hope you are able to enjoy this amazing event!
