Spring is festive time in our nation’s capital as we welcome the annual Cherry Blossoms! It marks a time of hope, renewal and beauty. Each year, we wait eagerly for estimates of peak bloom time so we can enjoy all their splendor. When the kids were young, we walked along the Tidal Basin with our strollers, ate picnic lunches under the cherry trees and had fun paddle boating alongside them. As empty nesters, we have even more opportunities to enjoy these beauties. Walk under the trees, attend a cherry blossom event with friends or eat a cherry blossom inspired meal with your spouse throughout the city! So many fun ways to Enjoy Washington DC, Cherry Blossom Style!
This year, peak bloom time estimated by the National Park Service is between the middle to end of March. However, unusually warm temperatures in DC can create earlier peak bloom predictions. Whether early or peak bloom, the city celebrates these pink beauties in all their glory. Head to Washington, DC and stay for the weekend. Enjoy Washington, DC Cherry Blossom Style with this action packed list!
When did Cherry Blossoms Arrive in Washington D.C.
Cherry trees arrived in Washington, D.C. in 1912. They were a gift from Japan, as a symbol of friendship from the People of Japan to the People of the United States. This gift of 3,000 beautiful cherry trees, or sakura, were planted at the Tidal Basin by First Lady Taft and Viscountess Chinda, wife of the Japanese Ambassador Chinda, in a ceremony on March 27, 1912. Sakura symbolizes rebirth, renewal and new beginnings.
Cherry Blossoms Up Close in Washington, DC
You can enjoy cherry blossoms at several locations throughout the city! Grab your good walking shoes, have your camera ready and enjoy Washington, DC cherry blossom style!
Enjoy Washington, D.C. Cherry Blossom Style
- Tidal Basin: The Tidal Basin is your first stop to enjoy the wave of pink cherry blossoms. Walk along the tree covered path toward the Jefferson Memorial. Grab a paddleboat and watch them in full view. Peak season brings big crowds, so plan your visit accordingly.
- The National Cherry Blossom Parade: Washington D,C.’s annual Cherry Blossom Parade runs along Consititution Ave. Enjoy performances and special guest appearances. You can get your Grandstand tickets here.
- The Blossom Kite Festival: Colors fly high in the sky on the National Mall during the Blossom Kite Festival. For more information, click here. The Washington Monument is a short walk to the Tidal Basin where you can walk amongst the cherry blossoms.
- The Wharf: A stay at the Washington, D.C. Wharf is a perfect location to enjoy everything Cherry Blossom in Washington, D.C. Just a short walk away from the Tidal Basin, the Wharf is home to numerous restaurants, music venues and hotels such as The Pendry, Intercontinental Hotel, Hyatt House, Hilton and others! The Wharf celebrates spring with the Bloomaroo Festival, a free event held each year with live music, games and activities followed by a fireworks show at 8:30pm.
- Spa Weekend at Salamander DC: Enjoy cherry blossom views with a weekend getway at the new Salamander DC (formerly Mandarin Oriental). Located between the Tidal Basin and The Wharf, its a short walk away from everything cherry blossom!
- Navy Yard: Celebrate Spring with Petalpalooza at The Yards in Navy Yard. Make it a staycation or getaway weekend with a stay at Thompson Washington, DC. Experience views of the Potomac and enjoy the fireworks show that evening at 8:30pm from their rooftop bar! Check their website for dates!
- Blooming Wonders at ARTECHOUSE: See ARTECHOUSE’s virtual exhibits to celebrate Spring, featuring a kaleidescope of colors!
- DC Cherry Blossom Tour: Enjoy a 4 hour monument tour seeing DCs famous landmarks, including the White House, and famous cherry blossoms. Learn more here.
- Moonlit Monument Electric Cart Tour: Monument pictures at night are stunning. Enjoy a small group, private tour visiting D.C.’s monuments at night in an electric cart. Super fun and a unique experience! Learn more here.
- Enjoy D.C. on Bike: Enjoy the flexibility of riding your bike along paths, museums and monuments. Great way to experience the city up close, get some exercise and enjoy the beautiful weather! Learn more here.
- Explore D.C. by Segway: Take a guided, small group tour of the nations capitol by segway and learn history while gliding away. Click here for this one-of-a-kind experience!
Cherry Blossom Time For Foodies in Washington, DC
- High Tea: Cherry Blossom high tea is quite a treat. You can experience beautiful, cherry blossom themed tea time at the Salamander DC, Willard Intercontinental, Waldorf Astoria and the Fairmont Hotel. Be sure to book in advance!
Enjoy Washinton, D.C. Cherry Blossom Style
For a full list of events, check out the nationalcherrybloosomfestival.org for more information!
Festive Cherry Blossom Season in Washington, DC
No doubt, cherry blossom season is a festive time in Washington, DC! The city comes alive celebrating these beauties with events, cherry blossom inspired cocktails and meals fit for foodies! Whether you’re a local or making it a weekend getaway, don’t miss an opportunity to Enjoy Washington, DC Cherry Blossom Style!
For more weekend getaways for DC nature lovers, see our post Hiking in History at Harper’s Ferry!
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