APTOPIX Washington Cherry Blossom

People capture images of cherry blossom trees along the tidal basin on the National Mall on Thursday, March 26, 2026, in Washington. The Washington Momument stands, left.

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Washington’s cherry blossoms hit peak bloom, sending a fleeting burst of pink across the capital

Washington’s cherry blossoms hit peak bloom, sending a fleeting burst of pink across the capital

Washington’s cherry blossoms have reached peak bloom, and the city’s spring rush is in full swing. The National Park Service says the flowering blooms hit their peak on Thursday, meaning 70% of the Yoshino Cherry blossoms are open. The park service says this timing is typical for late March and early April. The blooms last only a few days. Cool, calm weather helps them stay, but rain, wind or heat can strip petals fast. The National Cherry Blossom Festival runs for four weeks, with music and Japanese cultural events. The Tidal Basin is where most of the trees are located, but parts of it are fenced off for seawall repairs.