WASHINGTON (AP) — The enchanting cherry blossom trees in the heart of the nation’s capital have long captivated visitors, heralding the arrival of the tourist season in Washington, D.C. This year, experts predict that the peak bloom of the iconic pinkish-white flowers will grace the city between March 28 and 31, as per the National Park Service responsible for the city’s 3,500 cherished trees. The grand Cherry Blossom Festival is scheduled to unfold from March 20 to April 13.
This year’s timing marks a departure from the recent trend, often linked to the impact of global warming, where peak blooms have steadily advanced on the calendar, inching earlier each year. Following a particularly harsh winter in D.C., the peak bloom window has now shifted back by nearly a week — though still notably ahead of the 2013 peak commencing around April 9.
President of the Festival, Diana Mayhew, highlighted the impressive turnout from the previous year which exceeded pre-pandemic records for the first time, drawing an estimated 1.6 million visitors and generating over $200 million in revenue for local businesses.
Speaking at the event announcement, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser acknowledged the festival’s significant impact on the city, describing it as a substantial source of both excitement and economic activity.
A myriad of events have been meticulously planned, including the renowned annual kite festival on March 29, the lively Petalpalooza celebration featuring music and fireworks on April 5, and the grand Cherry Blossom Festival Parade set for April 12. Not to be missed are the diverse cherry blossom-themed delicacies offered by restaurants, ranging from martinis to milkshakes.
The history of the cherry blossoms traces back to a generous gift of 3,000 trees from the mayor of Tokyo in 1912, with the Japanese government actively participating in the trees’ care and the annual festival festivities. This year will feature a Japanese Street Festival on April 12 and 13 as part of the celebrations.
Fumito Miyake, the minister for public affairs at the Japanese embassy, announced that an additional 250 trees would be contributed as a special “birthday present” ahead of next summer’s commemoration of the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Visitors to this year’s festival will encounter some limitations in accessing the Tidal Basin, home to the largest concentration of cherry blossom trees. The National Park Service is engaged in a three-year renovation project to reinforce the basin’s aging seawall in preparation for next summer’s milestone celebration. Consequently, certain areas of the basin will be restricted and fenced off, with over 100 trees having to be cut down as part of the renovation, only to be replanted later.
Regrettably, devotees of Stumpy — the iconic gnarled tree that gained internet fame — will
