It's the moment we've all been waiting for... peak bloom is here!
At least 70% of the cherry trees along the Tidal Basin have blossomed on St. Patrick's Day, meaning it's time to take in their pink perfection.
"The blossoms are opening & putting on a splendid spring spectacle. See you soon," the National Park Service tweeted on Sunday.
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Peak bloom came early this year thanks to D.C. reaching the 70s several days in the beginning of March. The National Park Service had projected the cherry blossoms would reach their final stage between March 23 to 26.
Reaching peak bloom on St. Patrick’s Day makes it the second earliest peak bloom on record, Storm Team4 Meteorologist Chuck Bell said. It's tied with peak bloom in 2000 and two days behind peak bloom on March 15, 1990.
People have already been flocking to see the trees, backing up traffic around the Tidal Basin.
"We live two hours away, but it's worth the drive right now to come down," one woman said.
It's been just over two weeks since blossom watch began with the first stage on Saturday, March 2, when green buds appeared on the cherry trees along the Tidal Basin.
"What! I actually got to be here? Oh, I was telling him, 'If we don't go out today, I might miss it!' I'm so glad I did," another excited visitor said.
If weather conditions are good, peak bloom can last as long as 10 days, so it's time to get your bloom-filled day going! Maybe you're eager to see the splendor of the Tidal Basin trees, or maybe you'd rather avoid those crowds by visiting another cherry tree enclave.
Whatever you decide, there are spots to see the flowers in D.C., Maryland and Virginia. Remember to tag @nbcwashington on social media or email isee@nbcwashington.com for a chance to be featured!
This is a developing story. Refresh for updates.
