Good news, cherry blossom lovers!
This weekend's cold weather did not affect the Tidal Basin's famed cherry blossom trees. Peak bloom is still set for Wednesday and Thursday, the National Park Service (NPS) said.
Temperatures are expected to reach near-freezing Monday night, NPS Spokesman Mike Litterst says it will not affect peak bloom.
Peak bloom is considered to occur when 70 percent of the Yoshino cherry trees along the Tidal Basin are in bloom. The NPS said that in past years, unusually warm or cold temperatures have resulted in peak bloom as early as March 15 and as late as April 18. The average date for blooming is April 4.
Once the trees reach peak bloom, the blossoms can remain on the trees for 4-10 days, according to NPS.
This year's National Cherry Blossom Festival kicked off Sunday and runs through April 17.
Here's a peek at some of the best events:
- Saturday, March 26: The official opening ceremony features performances at the Warner Theatre (513 13th St. NW). Tickets are free but are required to attend; see the festival website.
- Saturday, April 2: Oh, go fly a kite! The Blossom Kite Festival, a family-favorite tradition, has competitions and demonstrations. You can bring your own kite, or kids can make their own!
- Saturday, April 9: The Southwest Waterfront Fireworks Festival will blast off above the water after a full day of enjoying food vendors, an artists' marketplace and more.
- Saturday, April 16: The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade boasts a 10-block-long lineup of balloons, bands and all things pink. Grandstand tickets are on sale now for $20, but standing room along the route is free.
- Saturday, April 16: After the parade, six blocks near Capitol Hill turn into a celebration of Japanese culture with food, performances and more during the Sakura Matsuri Festival. Tickets are $10 and free for children under 12.
- Saturday, April 16-Sunday April 17: The Cherry Blast at the Carnegie Library (801 K St. NW) is a celebration of Japanese pop culture, including anime, cosplay, fashion and gaming, plus a Japanese-inspired dance party. You can also indulge in Tokyo street food, sake tastings and sushi workshops. The event runs from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.
This year marks the 104th anniversary of the gift of the cherry blossom trees from Japan as a symbol of friendship with the United States.
