The very best days to see D.C.'s cherry blossoms are March 26 through March 30 -- right in the middle of spring break for many school districts.
The National Park Service announced its predictions Monday at the Newseum.
Despite the snow in our forecast this week, the weather isn't expected to harm the flowers. The buds that have already sprouted are still tightly closed, which means they won't be susceptible to cold weather, experts say.
Peak bloom is considered to fall when 70 percent of the blossoms are open. The average peak bloom date is April 4, but last year's was March 20.
The cherry blossoms draw about one million visitors each spring. This year marks the 101st anniversary of the gift of trees from Japan.
This year's National Cherry Blossom Festival is scheduled for March 20 through April 14. Despite concerns over government spending cuts, event planners say this year's festival won't be affected since the funding had already been allocated.
