Spring in Washington D.C. is heralded by thousands of blooming cherry trees. Visitors are greeted by a magnificent and beautiful sight around the Tidal Basin in West Potomac Park, in East Potomac Park (Haines Point), and on the Washington Monument grounds. Cherry blossom viewing can simply be looking at a cluster of flowering trees at a distance or admiring the beauty of single blossoms from close up. For a relaxing day, spend your time strolling or picnicking under the cherry blossoms.

The cherry blossom season is about two weeks. Full bloom is usually reached within a week after the opening of the first bloom. The blooming peak is over in the second week and the blossoms start falling from the trees. Strong wind and rain can cut the blooming season shorter, so do consult with the peak blooming forecast from The National Cherry Blossom Festival website (http://www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org) and the weather forecast for your visit.

This year marks the 95th commemoration of the gift of the 3,000 cherry trees from the city of Tokyo to the people of Washington, D.C. Several events are organized between March 31 and April 15 including fireworks display, street parade, sports activities, family events and arts exhibitions. For those interested in photography, there is a photo contest for capturing the festival moments. More information is available at http://www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org.

This is my personal photograph album of the splendor of the Tidal Basin and Washington Monument with blooming cherry blossoms.
http://home-and-garden.webshots.com/album/558514447pUPRBn?start=0.