2027
Cherry Blossom Watch
Washington, D.C.
Photo by David Coleman
Latest Updates
DC’s 2026 Cherry Blossoms Are Done. Here’s How the Season Wrapped Up.
DC’s cherry blossoms are done for the season — the trees are leafing out now after a short, fast bloom squeezed in by a cold winter and warm spring. Here’s how the 2026 season played out, plus photos and what’s ahead for 2027.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: April 2, 2026
The main bloom is done now. But the Kwanzan cherry blossoms are starting to flower.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update / Kwanzan Edition: April 2, 2026
The Kwanzan cherry blossoms are starting to bloom and already looking beautiful. They’ll look even better over the weekend into next week as it warms and more flowers come out.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: March 31, 2026
While they’re past their prime now and petals are falling, they still look beautiful. But if you’re heading down to the Tidal Basin, sooner is better than later.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: March 30, 2026
They’re still looking lovely, but the cherry blossoms are on their way out now. There’s a lot of cherry blossom snow coming down, and green leaves are starting to come through on some trees.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: March 27, 2026
It’s not the prettiest weather at the Tidal Basin this morning. A light drizzle and heavy clouds. But the beautiful flowers make up for it. And there are some important logistical updates.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: March 26, 2026
The cherry blossoms reached peak bloom today. And they’re looking stunning.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: March 25, 2026
The banks of the Tidal Basin are a sea of white right now, with most of the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: March 24, 2026
They’re close to peak bloom now and looking beautiful. If you have the opportunity, this week is a great chance to catch them without the crowds.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: March 23, 2026
They’ve suddenly popped after a few very warm days, and while they’re not at peak bloom yet, they’re close. This weekend will be prime time.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: March 20, 2026
The cherry blossoms aren’t flowering yet, but there’s plenty of pink and white poking through when you look at them up close. And the saucer magnolias are still in the process of fully opening.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: March 18, 2026
Last night’s cold temperatures did knock the saucer magnolias around, but they’re expected to bounce back. The cherry blossoms are getting closer to bloom. And warmer and calmer weather is on the way.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: March 15, 2026
Okame cherry blossoms are in full bloom; Yoshino cherry trees have reached stage 2 of 6; not much change in the saucer magnolias, and see how it looks at the Tidal Basin this morning.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: March 12, 2026
In today’s edition: Saucer magnolias almost flowering; Okame cherry blossoms flowering; Yoshino cherry blossoms reach the green bud stage; and see how it looks this rainy/sleety/snowy morning at the Tidal Basin.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: March 10, 2026
See how it looks at the Tidal Basin this morning; green buds are widespread now; saucer magnolias; and the indicator tree’s green buds.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: March 5, 2026
The first wave of peak bloom forecasts are out, and they predict a later bloom this year.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: March 2, 2026
Peak bloom forecasts coming this week! Plus: How it looks at the Tidal Basin today; saucer magnolias; and saplings are being planted.
Cherry Blossom Watch Update: February 26, 2026
The new saplings have arrived and are being planted, and why an early bloom still can’t be ruled out.
Planning
Where to Stay in Washington DC for the Cherry Blossoms
Not sure where to stay for the cherry blossoms? Here’s a local’s breakdown of hotels closest to the Tidal Basin and The Wharf, plus solid options across Downtown, Georgetown, and Arlington for every budget and walking distance.
When is Cherry Blossom Season in Washington, DC?
If you’re looking to visit Washington, DC during the blooming of the famous cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin, you’re going to have to contend with uncertainty about precisely when the cherry blossoms will be in bloom. I realize that uncertainty isn’t much good if you’re trying to schedule travel plans, so I’ve put together some information that helps you at least make an educated guess.
Cherry Blossom 10 Miler 2027: What Visitors Need to Know
The Cherry Blossom Ten Mile Run circled the Tidal Basin on the morning of April 12, 2026, its usual route around the basin, Hains Point, and Memorial Bridge. Here’s the route, what roads closed, and how visitors got around by Metro, foot, or bike while the race was on — useful background whether you’re looking back at this year’s race or planning for next year’s.
White, Pink, or Both: How Cherry Blossom Color Changes
Cherry blossoms don’t stay one color: Yoshinos open a fresh white and gradually flush pink as they age, starting from the center of each petal. Close-up photos here show that shift in detail, plus how to tell true cherry blossoms apart from Kwanzan cherries, saucer magnolias, and other pink spring bloomers.
Peak Bloom, Explained: Dates, Averages, and What to Expect
Cherry blossoms in Washington DC typically bloom in late March to early April, but the exact peak bloom date varies year to year based on winter and spring temperatures. Here’s what peak bloom actually means, how it’s predicted, and the historical dates to help you plan your visit.
2027 Cherry Blossom Peak Bloom Forecasts
Timing a visit to the Tidal Basin can be frustrating. Here is the latest 2026 peak bloom forecast, real-time weather tracking, and practical advice for navigating the bloom.
Getting to the Tidal Basin: Address, Metro, and Parking Tips
Looking for the Tidal Basin’s exact address or the closest Metro stop? Here’s the GPS-ready location, walking routes from the National Mall, and the full range of parking, biking, and transit options for reaching DC’s cherry blossoms.
2027 National Cherry Blossom Festival: Dates, Events & What to Expect
The 2027 National Cherry Blossom Festival runs March 20 to April 11, with the bloom likely but never guaranteed to fall within those dates. Here’s a breakdown of which events are free to attend and which require advance tickets.
Tidal Basin Parking: Metered Street Spots, Free Areas & Nearby Garages
If you’re driving to see DC’s cherry blossoms, expect competition for parking spots — especially on weekends around peak bloom. Here’s where to find metered street parking around the Tidal Basin, designated disabled zones, free parking at East Potomac Park, and paid garages at L’Enfant Plaza and The Wharf.
Which Washington DC Sites Actually Require Advance Tickets
Planning a spring visit to DC? The Tidal Basin cherry blossoms are always free with no tickets needed, but several nearby Smithsonian museums and monuments require advance timed-entry reservations. Here’s a local, up-to-date rundown of what to book ahead and what you can simply walk into for 2026.
Recommended D.C. Cherry Blossom Photographers & Portrait Permits
If you’re looking for a local photographer for family, engagement, or portrait sessions during the cherry blossoms, here are five professionals I trust and regularly recommend.
The Floral Library: DC’s Tulip Garden at the Tidal Basin
Arrived after the cherry blossoms peaked? The Floral Library, a tulip and daffodil patch at the Tidal Basin’s northeast corner, typically blooms a bit later, and here’s exactly where to find it.
Remembering Stumpy: DC’s Scrappiest Cherry Tree
Stumpy, the scrappy little cherry tree that won hearts along the Tidal Basin, was removed in late May 2024 as part of the seawall restoration project. The area has since been rebuilt, and Arboretum staff plan to grow genetic clones from Stumpy’s cuttings to replant along the banks.
Do Cherry Blossom Trees Actually Grow Cherries?
Cherry blossom trees around the Tidal Basin do bear fruit, but not the kind you’d find in a supermarket. Here’s what these small, dark red cherries actually look like, and why the local birds and squirrels seem to leave them alone.
What to Expect at the Lincoln Memorial in Spring 2026
If you’re coming into town for the cherry blossoms, there’s a good chance you’ll also want to stop by the Lincoln Memorial nearby. Here’s what to expect with the current construction project.
What to Expect at the Tidal Basin Construction in Spring 2026
There’s a major construction project on the southern corner of the Tidal Basin to repair and rebuild the seawall to help mitigate the flooding. Here’s how it’s looking as we start off 2026.
A Photo Timeline of the DC Cherry Blossom Bloom
Peak bloom isn’t the only time to visit. Here is a photographic timeline showing exactly what the cherry blossoms look like in the days before and after the peak.
The Monuments and Memorials Around the Tidal Basin
Beyond the cherry trees, the Tidal Basin is ringed by major monuments and hidden memorials. Here is a leisurely walking guide to the landmarks you’ll pass along the water.
