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Washington, D.C.'s, cherry blossom season is in full swing, and with it comes myriad activities updated for pandemic times. "We wanted to present a hybrid experience for people to enjoy [on their own],” says Diana Mayhew, president and CEO of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, an annual event that draws crowds from around the country and the world. The main reason for it all: witnessing the peak of the flowering, or hanami. The tradition dates back to 1912 in the U.S., when the first trees—a gift from Japan to symbolize friendship—were planted. If you aren't able to visit the trees, which are already blooming, in person, you can get a round-the-clock picture online or safely view the trees at alternative spots nearby.
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How to track the bloom
The Yoshino cherry is the most abundant variety, making up the vast majority of the 3,700 trees managed by the National Park Service around the Tidal Basin, East Potomac Park, and the Washington Monument, where they're planted. (There are 12 species in total, with a single trunk each for the Okame and Shirofugen.) The season is based around their bloom cycle; this year is shaping up to be a few weeks behind 2020. As of March 22, pretty pink buds were appearing, and peak bloom—the day when 70 percent of the Yoshino blossoms are open—was predicted between April 2 and 5. (Last year it happened on March 20.)
Forecasting begins once the trees reach dormancy early in the year, and draws on historic documentation, near and long-term forecasts, and plant cycles, says the NPS. The delicate Yoshinos bloom for several days, but their lifespan is impacted by the weather—temperate climates can lengthen it, while wind can end it. So, have reduced crowds had an impact? Not really, notes Mike Litterst, chief of communications for the National Mall and Memorial Parks. “The blossoms should be the same size and volume as previous years.” The stages are recorded on the NPS’ website, and the BloomCam gives you around-the-clock opportunities to moon over the sight.
The best places to see D.C.'s cherry blossoms
Because access (by car and on foot) is limited at the Tidal Basin and West and East Potomac Parks from March 26 to April 12, plan your in-person visits around using local transit; a walk from the Smithsonian metro stop, where the Orange and Silver Lines run, as well as several buses, is your best bet—and makes for a lovely approach to the blooms. Nearby hotels like the historic Willard, Thompson Washington D.C., and the InterContinental at the Wharf are excellent places to stay, and staff there can help you with plans and tips.
Organizers encourage folks to make use of a wealth of new interactive online tours. A virtual stroll 3.3 miles around the Tidal Basin provides a peek at landmarks like the 350-year-old Japanese Lantern or the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. An online 360-degree bike ride through East Potomac Park, with its Hains Point loop, may take you by that solo Okame. Looking to go in person but to an alternate location? Consider running (like we do) the Mount Vernon Trail to Gravelly Point for a view across the Potomac. A lesser-known spot is the National Arboretum in Northeast, where there’s usually an extended blooming season. Or hop on a water taxi and motor from The Wharf to Georgetown, National Harbor, and Old Town Alexandria, whose 100 block of Wolfe Street has particularly photogenic petals.
Streaming events
Actress Drew Barrymore and local ABC 7 anchor Alison Starling co-host a celebration show on April 9, with a performance between the National Children’s Chorus and the Tokyo International Children’s Choir. The program will be nationally syndicated from April to June.
In-person events
Visit the 26 sculptures of Art in Bloom, a public installation in eight D.C. wards, as well as Maryland and Virginia. Of note: Alex Goastièr’s Full Circle Blossom in Anacostia, a representation of mental health amid COVID-19, and Flower Kuties, from 17-year-old Kaila Garcia in Eastern Market. Drive by the Ronald Reagan Building’s 14th Street exterior to view giant projections. Or buy tickets (capacity is limited) to digital gallery Artechouse’s immersive Renewal 2121 show, a study of natural and human life 100 years from now. As for the cuisine? Restaurants are dishing out themed food; Jont’s tasting menu has a sakura masu course, a rare salmon available only during the season.
