News Release
NPS Photo
News Release Date: March 5, 2026
Contact: NewsMedia@nps.gov
Washington, D.C. — The Department of the Interior and National Park Service today announced that peak bloom for the iconic cherry trees surrounding the Tidal Basin and National Mall is projected to occur between March 29 – April 1, with exact timing dependent on weather conditions. Once peak bloom begins, the blossoms typically remain on the trees for seven to 10 days.
“As we mark 250 years of American independence, the cherry blossoms remind us of our Nation’s enduring strength and the responsibility we share to care for the places that tell our story,” said Jessica Bowron, Comptroller, Exercising the Delegated Authority of the Director. “Thanks to President Trump’s Great American Outdoors Act, we’re delivering real results — restoring the Tidal Basin, strengthening critical infrastructure, and working to keep our Nation’s capital safe and beautiful so families from every state can experience it at its best, now and for the next 250 years.”
The Department’s efforts align with President Donald J. Trump’s Executive Order to Make D.C. Safe and Beautiful, prioritizing the restoration of public spaces that reflect the pride and strength of the American people. In addition to infrastructure upgrades, the National Park Service and U.S. Park Police are working to ensure a safe, orderly, and welcoming experience for visitors throughout cherry blossom season and the anniversary year.
The blooming of the cherry trees has been an annual springtime tradition in the nation’s capital since the historic 1912 gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Japan and draws millions of visitors to Washington, D.C., each year. In 2026, the blossoms will coincide with the 250th anniversary of American independence and ongoing restoration efforts to strengthen the Tidal Basin seawall and enhance the beauty of one of the nation’s most cherished landscapes.
The $113 million restoration of the Tidal Basin and West Potomac Park seawall is finishing eight months ahead of schedule and under budget. The project and the planting of new cherry trees were made possible through the Great American Outdoors Act, a landmark conservation achievement from President Donald J. Trump’s first administration. This investment addresses decades of flooding, sinking ground, and aging infrastructure while safeguarding the cherry trees and surrounding memorials for future generations.
To protect the newly restored areas and landscaping, walkways through the Tidal Basin restoration zone—between the Jefferson Memorial and Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial—will remain closed throughout the bloom period; however, clearly marked alternate routes are available, and the full loop around the Tidal Basin remains accessible to visitors. These closures are essential to allow new plantings to establish and thrive.
Visitors can find real-time bloom updates and trip-planning information at https://www.nps.gov/cherry.
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About the National Park Service Established in 1916, the National Park Service preserves America’s most treasured natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations. Learn more at nps.gov.
Celebrating Our Nation’s 250th Anniversary The National Park Service is playing a leading role in the celebration and commemoration of the 250th anniversary of American independence. These efforts support Executive Order 14189: Celebrating America's 250th Birthday, which calls for "a grand celebration worthy of the momentous occasion of the 250th anniversary of American Independence on July 4, 2026." Throughout the country, national parks will host hundreds of 250th anniversary programs, events, and exhibits, including many sites with direct connections to the formation of the country.
Last updated: March 5, 2026