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D.C. Cherry Blossoms Hit Peak Full Bloom Early: See Photos

The cherry trees in DC's Tidal Basin reached their peak bloom late this week, drawing crowds eager to snap pictures of the iconic blossoms.

Visitors embrace while standing among the cherry blossom trees along the Tidal Basin on the National Mall on Thursday, March 26, 2026, in Washington, D.C.
Visitors embrace while standing among the cherry blossom trees along the Tidal Basin on the National Mall on Thursday, March 26, 2026, in Washington, D.C. (AP Photo/Tom Brenner)

WASHINGTON, DC — The famed Yoshino cherry blossom trees in Washington, D.C., reached their peak bloom cycle on Thursday, a few days early, the National Park Service said.

After a harsh winter, the flowers lining the Tidal Basin have been a welcome treat. Visitors from across the globe flocked to the nation's capitol to get a glimpse of the pink-petaled trees. Many people posed for pictures in front of the trees, while other wanted to get as many close-up pictures of the cherry trees as possible.

In addition to the trees marking the start of the spring with their blooms, Washington, D.C., hosts a four-week long National Cherry Blossom Festival. The festival began March 20 and runs through April 12.

Find out what's happening in Washington DCfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The festivities include musical performances, a kite festival, parade, Japanese cultural events and a fireworks display.

The blossoms are likely to only last for the next week, so visit while you can. See photos below of the pink blossoms and the visitors coming to sneak a peek.

Find out what's happening in Washington DCfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

People walk among the cherry blossom trees along the Tidal Basin on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. (AP Photo/Tom Brenner)
People capture images of the blossoms on the cherry trees. (AP Photo/Tom Brenner)
Members of the Mississippi National Gard patrol among the trees along D.C.'s Tidal Basin. (AP Photo/Tom Brenner)
Visitors gather to watch sunrise. (AP Photo/Tom Brenner)
Pedal boats line the Tidal Basin with the cherry blossoms in view. (Douliery Olivier/ABACA/Shutterstock)
Ducks stand at the edge of the pond amongst the blossoms. (Andrew Leyden/ZUMA Press Wire/Shutterstock)
Blossoms surround the Washington Monument. (Douliery Olivier/ABACA/Shutterstock)
People pose in front of the full bloom blossoms. (Douliery Olivier/ABACA/Shutterstock)

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