Planning a Cherry Blossom Day in Washington
The National Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the trees that Tokyo gave to Washington in 1912. The blossoms usually peak in late March or early April, and the National Park Service posts a peak-bloom forecast each year.
Time it well
Peak bloom lasts only a few days and depends on the weather, so check the forecast often. Weekday mornings, especially near sunrise, are far calmer than weekend afternoons.
Leave the car at home
Parking near the Tidal Basin fills quickly. Bethesda is on Metro’s Red Line; ride to Metro Center and transfer to the Blue, Orange or Silver line for Smithsonian station, then walk about 15 minutes.
What to bring
- Comfortable walking shoes: the loop around the Tidal Basin is about two miles.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen; the paths have little shade.
- A refillable water bottle and a light layer for chilly mornings.
- A charged phone, plus a small power bank if you take lots of photos.
Be kind to the trees
Do not pick blossoms, climb trees or stand on low branches. Many of the trees are old and easily damaged, and the Park Service asks visitors to look and not touch.
