While going to view the cherry blossoms is a highlighted attraction for tourists visiting the nation’s capital, going to view the trees along the Tidal Basin is something DMV residents should also take advantage of this spring.
Yes, you might get a view of the cherry blossom trees as you slowly traverse the city in traffic, or have the pleasure of trees growing in your neighborhoods or the parks you frequent. However, the 1700 cherry blossoms along the Tidal Basin create a beautiful, floral pink paradise that is gorgeous to experience in person.
Seeing the cherry blossoms alongside monuments such as the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial is not only aesthetically pleasing, but creates a narrative of cross-cultural connections, collaboration and continued work toward peace.
This spring will be the last time to catch all 1700 cherry blossoms before 150 are removed so that the National Park Service can begin repairing the crumbling sea wall on the south side of the Tidal Basin.
As peak bloom hit March 17, this is the perfect time to take a final picture with “Stumpy,” the scrawny, but resilient cherry blossom that has weathered many storms, and see all 1700 trees in their glory.
Further, there’s National Cherry Blossom Festival programming in all eight wards
“We are thrilled to welcome hundreds of thousands of visitors from near and far to experience the Festival’s diverse programming to promote arts and culture, hospitality, and community,” said Diana Mayhew, National Cherry Blossom Festival president and CEO. “As we celebrate 112 years of blossoms, we invite everyone to join us in creating memories, honoring this cherished tradition, and our friendship with Japan and one another.”
For free, Washingtonians can enjoy the festival’s opening ceremony on March 23, the Oxon Run Pinknic and Kite Fly presented by Chase on March 24 in Ward 8, or Petalpalooza at the Capitol Riverfront on April 6, among loads of other events and activities.
Don’t let tourists be the only ones appreciating D.C.’s beauty. Feel fortunate to be in such close proximity to the beauty the city has to offer and take it in full throttle.