Cherry Blossom Season Approaches with Vibrant Blooms in D.C. and Philadelphia

WASHINGTON, D.C. — As spring unfolds, the iconic cherry blossoms in Washington D.C. are nearing peak bloom, anticipated for the end of March or early April. Hundreds of thousands of visitors annually flock to the Tidal Basin to witness this breathtaking spectacle, which symbolizes friendship between Japan and the United States.

The Yoshino cherry trees, planted along the Tidal Basin, are nearing their peak bloom, a period when approximately 70% of the flowers open. According to the National Park Service, the blossoms are projected to reach full bloom around March 31 to April 2, 2025. Local horticulturists emphasize the importance of weather conditions, stating that warmer days and mild nights encourage the flowers to blossom rapidly.

“Under ideal conditions, the beautiful flowers can remain for over a week,” said a horticulturist. “It’s all about the adequate weather — if the temperatures remain moderate without harsh winds or rain, the blooms thrive.”

However, the cherry trees are facing challenges, including the degradation of the sea wall around the Tidal Basin, which has led to flooding events impacting the trees. With over 150 trees removed for maintenance, experts hope the remaining trees can continue to flourish. Despite these setbacks, many are optimistic about the blossoming season.

“These trees represent resilience and the beauty of renewal as we transition into warmer months,” said National Park Service spokesperson Jane Delaney. “They not only serve as a stunning visual display but also as a reminder of spring’s promises.”

The National Cherry Blossom Festival, set to commence on March 20, 2025, will offer a variety of events, including cultural performances and family-friendly activities at the Welcome Area and ANA Stage.

In addition to D.C., Philadelphia prepares for its cherry blossom season, which is expected to peak around the same time. Sandi Polyakov, the garden curator at Morris Arboretum, emphasized the positive effect these flowers have on the public. “People seem to feel joy just by being around the blossoms. It’s like a yearly rebirth,” Polyakov stated.

The city’s cherry blossom tradition began in 1926 with the planting of cherry trees for America’s 150th anniversary. The tradition has since blossomed with more trees being added progressively, including an additional 1,000 trees planted between 1998 and 2007.

For both cities, residents and visitors are encouraged to embrace the cherry blossom season by exploring lesser-known viewing spots such as the National Arboretum and Congressional Cemetery in D.C., or Little Island and the Brooklyn Botanic Garden in New York City, where cherry blossoms will bloom from late March through May.

Travel options to the Tidal Basin include Metrorail, bus, bike, and boat, providing various ways to enjoy the seasonal beauty. The Smithsonian Metro Station is nearby, but L’Enfant Plaza offers more convenient access to multiple lines.

As the cherry blossom season continues, both D.C. and Philadelphia offer opportunities to celebrate this natural phenomenon, marking the beautiful return of spring.