D.C. Cherry Blossoms Hit Peak Bloom Days Ahead Of Schedule

WASHINGTON, DC — The cherry blossoms along the Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C., reached their peak bloom on Sunday, according to the National Park Service.

Peak bloom is defined as the day when 70 percent of the Cherry blossoms are open. Peak bloom varies annually depending on weather conditions.

The National Park Service said above-average temperatures in recent days brought the blossoms to peak bloom ahead of schedule. The Trust for the National Mall’s BloomCam broadcasts live footage of the trees around the Tidal Basin.

Earlier this month, organizers of the 2021 National Cherry Blossom Festival predicted peak bloom of the cherry trees would occur between April 2-5

Last Tuesday, the NPS announced it would limit vehicular and pedestrian access and shut down parking lots around the Tidal Basin during peak bloom to avoid crowds gathering during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The BloomCam showed groups of people viewing the cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin on Monday, but not the crowds the trees normally attract at this time of the year.

Extraordinary warm or cool temperatures have resulted in peak bloom occurring as early as March 15 in 1990 and as late as April 18 in 1958.

The Cherry trees typically bloom for several days. The length of the blooming period depends on weather conditions. Cool, calm weather can extend the length of the bloom, and a rainy, windy day can bring an abrupt end to the ephemeral blossoms.

The National Park Service is encouraging people to virtually experience the trees at the Tidal Basin through a variety of online opportunities, including through the BloomCam.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival Celebration Show, a nationally syndicated variety entertainment show, will be co-hosted by actress and talk show host Drew Barrymore and Alison Starling, news anchor for ABC 7, and will feature performances and special appearances by singer Amy Grant, gospel legend CeCe Winans, 2020 "American Idol" winner Samantha Diaz, Olympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi and talk show host Rachael Ray.

The celebration show will be broadcast online by Events DC on Friday, April 9, locally on WJLA-TV (ABC 7) on Saturday, April 10 at noon and on WJLA 24/7 News on Sunday, April 11 at 10:30 a.m., and will be syndicated nationally throughout April, May, and June.

Several items commemorating the 2021 National Cherry Blossom Festival are already available for sale in the festival's online gift shop. Official festival merchandise, from face masks and the 2021 official National Cherry Blossom poster, to tote bags and jewelry, can be purchased on the website.