Cherry blossoms hit peak bloom, painting DC's Tidal Basin pink
WASHINGTON (7News) — PEAK BLOOM! PEAK BLOOM! The National Park Service (NPS) has announced that the iconic cherry blossoms around Washington, D.C.'s Tidal Basin are now in peak bloom.
Peak bloom marks the period when 70% of the Yoshino cherry trees around the Tidal Basin are in full flower. This year’s bloom arrives right on schedule for spring, transforming the Basin into a sea of delicate pink and white petals.
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The cherry blossoms are one of the D.C. region’s biggest spring attractions, drawing millions of visitors annually. The 2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival is already underway, with events planned throughout the coming weeks.
GALLERY | Visitors enjoy cherry blossoms as they near peak bloom at Tidal Basin
The cherry trees' blossom development is dependent on weather conditions.
On average, cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin reach peak bloom between late March and early April, though the exact timing depends on weather conditions. Last year, the cherry blossoms reached peak bloom on March 17.
The bloom unfolds in six stages, according to NPS:
- Stage 1: Green buds appear
- Stage 2: Florets become visible
- Stage 3: Florets extend
- Stage 4: Peduncles elongate
- Stage 5: Puffy blossoms
- Stage 6: Peak bloom!
7News is a proud partner of the 2025 National Cherry Blossom Festival, from March 20 to April 13. The event is full of weeks of cultural events, parades, and blooming celebrations in the city.
