The weather was perfect and the blossoms on the Cherry trees were at their best. Since I only travel on the weekends, it is tough to catch the blossoms near their peak, either I get there and it is a bit early or a bit late.
This year however was the best since the blossoms had just been declared at their peak, when 70% of the cherry blossoms are open, so by the weekend the trees were really exploding with blooms and what a treat that was! The views were outstanding.
- Forecasting the peak bloom date is hard because it is subject to the weather. They can only predict the peak about 10 days in advance.
- The Cherry trees were a present from Japan in 1912. 3,020 of them were given at the time.
- Planting of the Cherry trees along the tidal basin took place from 1913 - 1920.
- The First Cherry Blossom festival was in 1935.
- The cherry trees around the tidal basin are managed by the U.S. National Park Service supported by your tax dollars.
- The Tidal basin area and the National Mall are part of the National Park system.
When you come to visit:
- Dress comfortably and nicely because you are going to take lots of pictures of you with the monuments and the cherry blossoms in the background, you want to look good.
- Expect crowds but know that everyone is also there for the same reason as you, to see the beautiful scenery.
- Don't forget your camera.
- Wear a hat and don't forget your sunglasses.
- Stop and rest along the way to enjoy the view.
- Expect long lines at the rest rooms.
- You can purchase food at the Smithsonian museums or the food trucks by the Washington monument. Lots of variety of food.
- Walk all around the tidal basin.
- Check the U.S. National Park Service website to prepare for your visit.
As for me, I am so glad I went again this year. The views were amazing, the weather was fabulous and the blossoms were at their best.

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To all of you who are Still Fabulous and Traveling locally I wish you,
Happy Travels