The beautiful Cherry Blossoms in Washington, DC are expected to bloom on time this year to line the Tidal with baby pink and white blooms.
Cherry Blossom DC watch is set for: Saturday, March 20, 2021 – Saturday, April 11, 2021, with peak bloom estimated for April 4-9, 2021.
The National Cherry Blossom DC Festival, spanning several days in celebration and view of the blooms, generally brings in a countless number of visitors to the nation’s capital. This year, however, the majority of the festival events will be virtual but that doesn’t mean you can’t safely view the blossoms in person or explore the city.
First, some quick history about the Cherry Blossom DC. All over the world Cherry Blossom seasons come and go as quickly as they arrive. The National Cherry Blossom Festival Washington DC is no different. Trees turn vivid shades of pink, coating riverbanks, and walkway with beauty. Usually, the first sign that Spring has officially arrived, between March-May with peak bloom happening in early April. Though the blooms only last a few days, there are celebrations all over that welcome their presence.
Here in Washington, DC, we celebrate with the National Cherry Blossom Festival (1934) in remembrance of the Japanese cherry trees gifted from the Tokyo City Major to Washington, DC in 1912. With some thousands of cherry blossom trees throughout the city, Washington, DC has become the next best place to visit during this season outside of Japan. With that, the festival has grown, lasting about three-weeks, include family day, tours, classes, pop-ups, and more ending with a parade on the festival’s last Saturday morning.
Cherry Blossom DC Festival
Best time to go?
There is never a bad time to go and view the Cherry Blossoms, even in the rain they are still beautiful. However, if you’re looking for lighter congestion try weekdays, early morning, or late evening to miss some of the heavy crowds.
How to get around?
Parking in this area, especially during this time can be very limited with traffic at a high. Opt for tour buses, shuttle, biking, walking, or the metro to get you to and from all Cherry Blossom festival Washington DC activities.
Where to view Cherry Blossoms:
There are so many options of where to spot the cherry blossom DC and where to photograph.
Tidal Basin
Tidal Basin has long been a favorite viewing location for me over the years. As the blooms gorgeously line the water it also makes for the perfect photo opportunity. Tidal Basin is the most picturesque as you can walk along the waterway, look across at the monuments, or put yourself center while on a paddleboat. But be aware, this is also everyone else’s favorite spot too. To ensure you get the best photos and time to enjoy the blossoms, come very early or late evening for a smaller crowd. No matter what side you’re on you’ll have a beautiful view. I suggest early or late arrival as this spot gets packed quickly.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
My second favorite place to take in the flowing cherry blossoms in DC is near the MLK, Jr memorial. I just enjoy the way the monument and blooms complement each other.
Japanese Tea Lantern
I view this piece as an ode to the history of the National Cherry Blossom DC Festival.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
This spot is great for bringing the kiddies. You get a little viewing area surrounded by cherry blossoms, with multiple sculptures that lead to great photo ops in an open space for the kids.
Thomas Jefferson Memorial
If you’re in search of a great photo this spot is for you. Come right before sunset to capture the prettiest image of cherry blossoms framing the Thomas Jefferson Memorial in the background.
Washington Monument
Taking a walk, walking the dogs, or having a Cherry Blossom DC picnic this spot is for you.
The National Arboretum
If you live in the area, you’ve probably visited the US Arboretum once or twice before. It’s a great location for photos, peaceful yoga, fall foliage watching, and even Cherry Blossom watching.
Hains Point Park
If you want to make a day out of the blossoms come visit Hains Point Park. Normally, lower foot traffic gives you more time and space to explore. Also, Hains Point Park has both a playground and picnic area along a path where biking is also welcomed.
While in town be sure to take time to enjoy everything else Washington, DC has to offer by exploring the wineries, restaurants, or museums.
Where to stay:
Quick recommendations of nearby hotels to get you started on your planning.
Where to eat & drink:
You have to eat right? Why not try new hot spots along with way. Just a shortlist of restaurants, bars, and even coffeehouses.
Cherry Blossom Tours:
Things to do:
- The official National Cherry Blossom Festival organization has multiple events happening virtually.
- If you’re a museum fanatic, Washington, DC has you covered with a long list of Smithsonian museums, additional museums like the Baltimore Museum of Art surrounding memorials, and more.
- Garden Lover check out the Smithsonian Gardens, United States Botanic Garden, or Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens.
Events around town:
The best… the best part about this three-week-long festival are all the events that come with it. Yes, this year may be different and lighter on events but there will still be some. Be on the look-out for cherry blossom-themed pop-up bars, art installations, yoga or dance classes, and even more. Don’t forget the parade and fireworks too. There definitely is no shortage of events that take place to welcome in warmer weather and pink blossoms.
Not in DC:
If you can’t experience the Cherry Blossoms in Japan or make the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC be sure to check out some of the other amazing locations. These gorgeous trees are blooming all over the world from places like St. Louis & Philadelphia to Spain & Lithuania and more. Welcome spring with the beauty of these pink and white delicate blooms. The perfect spring backdrop.
Do you enjoy the Cherry Blossom DC festival or others? Have you traveled to view them? What are your plans this year? Let me know in the comments below.
**When planning your visit to Washington, DC I recommend triple check COVID19 restrictions as they can change frequently. Check openings, closings, time changes, and any other regulations to adhere to.
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