Washington's Grandest Springtime Tradition!

ALERT - February 5, 2021
We will be following guidance from the CDC and recommendations from DC. This will be updated with the newest information on Public Gatherings that would effect the Cherry Blossom Festival. 


The blooming of the cherry trees around the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C. has come to symbolize the natural beauty of our nation's capital city. The famous trees, a gift of Japan in 1912, signal Washington's beginning of spring with an explosion of life and color that surrounds the Tidal Basin in a sea of pale pink and white blossoms.

In 2021, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we will be offering a full range of virtual visitation options as an alternative to the traditional festival activities. Check back for updated information about the 2021 season. Use this site to help plan your visit!

Cherry Blossom Bloom Cam shot of the Tidal Basin

Bloom Cam

Watch the blooming of the cherry rrees along the Tidal Basin from a webcam hosted by our partner, the Trust for the National Mall

Close-up of a cherry tree branch with clustered blooming flowers

Bloom Watch

When will the trees bloom? How do we predict the bloom? What are the stages of blooming? Find out here!

Closeup of a cherry blossom

A Field Guide to the Cherry Trees

Can't tell your Yoshinos from your Usuzumis? We've got you covered here!

A Japanese woman in cultural attire stands in front of a Japanese stone lantern

Events and Activities

The National Cherry Blossom Festival runs over five weekends with a parade, Japanese cultural events, fireworks and much, much more!

Turn of the century photo of Japanese visitors at the cherry blossoms

An International Gift of Friendship

Learn how over the last 100 years the cherry blossoms have become Washington's grandest springtime tradition.

Last updated: February 12, 2021

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