WASHINGTON, D.C. — The region’s most popular cherry blossom festival returns on March 20 this year and runs until April 1. Here’s when, where, and how to see D.C.’s iconic cherry blossom trees.
History
The Japanese have been celebrating cherry blossoms for centuries. Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are a symbol in Japan representing beauty and mortality, and symbolize the fleeting nature of life, among other things, in Japanese art and culture.
The D.C. cherry blossoms were given to the city of D.C. as a gift from Tokyo’s then-mayor, Yukio Ozaki, following an effort led by Mrs. Eliza Ruhamah Scidmore. This multidecade effort resulted in the March 1912 gift of 3,000 trees that were planted in the D.C. Tidal Basin.
Cherry blossoms can be found around the country, but many cities, towns and individuals planted them in the DMV area following the successful gift of the D.C. trees.
Peak Bloom
“Peak bloom” is when the blossoms are at their biggest and brightest. This time is defined as the day when 70% of the trees surrounding the Tidal Basin have opened their buds, creating an incredible scene.
It’s also usually the busiest sightseeing period for the D.C. cherry blossoms. This year, experts expect peak bloom to last from March 29 to April 1.
Events
The 2026 Cherry Blossom Festival will host more than two dozen events over the course of the festival. Some major events include:
National Museum of Asian Art’s Cherry Blossom Celebration on March 20
Cherry Blossom Concert: Ayaka Hirahara on March 20
Opening Ceremony and Bloom After Dark on March 21
64th Sakura Matsuri – Japanese Street Festival on April 11
You can view the full list of events online and learn more about each one. Many events are free and don’t require registration.
How To See The Cherry Blossoms
The famous cherry blossoms are around the D.C. Tidal Basin, a 106-acre man-made reservoir whose shores pass several landmarks, including the Washington Monument and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. The views make for an unbeatable experience as the cherry blossoms reflect off the water.
The area gets crowded fast, especially around peak bloom. Most visitors have the best luck going early in the day, around sunrise, on weekdays. Midmornings on a weekday are also a decent bet, since you’ll avoid the sunrise photographers and parties.
Many experienced festivalgoers suggest parking in the city and taking the Blue, Orange or Silver lines to the Smithsonian station stop, and then walking an additional 10-15 minutes to the Tidal Basin.
Some tourists also recommend walking along Hains Point Loop instead of the Tidal Basin, and viewing the cherry blossoms from across the water. You can also rent a paddle boat to view them from the water, but the boats often have long wait times.
Finally, you can skip the Tidal Basin altogether and see cherry blossoms in the U.S. National Arboretum, though there are fewer trees and peak bloom dates may differ.
Where To See Cherry Blossoms Outside Of D.C.
Thankfully, people all over the D.C. area love cherry blossoms, so you also have the opportunity to see them right here in Maryland. Here are a few stunning spots right in our backyard.
Lexington Manor Passive Park: St. Mary’s County is hosting its own cherry blossom festival on Saturday, March 21, from noon to 4 p.m. You can see the stunning trees and enjoy a day of festivities and hands-on events.
National Harbor: This waterfront location in Prince George’s County has a collection of more than 200 trees. It’s a lovely alternative waterfront view to the Tidal Basin, and you don’t have to travel all the way into D.C.
Quiet Waters Park: This Annapolis park offers a low-key way to enjoy the cherry blossom trees that bloom wild on the property, while also enjoying a quieter day outside. You can enjoy a walk in the park or a picnic, or take the kids to the playground, all while surrounded by scenic views.
There are numerous other spots to view collections of the trees around Maryland. If you know of a great cherry blossom spot, let us know!
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!
