Photos: Cherry Blossoms Reach Peak Bloom for 2013

The cherry blossoms were in peak bloom on Tuesday afternoon as large crowds wandered around the Tidal Basin and National Mall, taking in their delicate pink and white splendor.

The peak bloom is when 70 percent of the blossoms are open and the average peak bloom date is April 4. After several recalculations this year, the National Park Service determined that the peak bloom would fall April 6 through 8.

NPS initially estimated a peak bloom would arrive March 26-30 and then changed that prediction to April 3 through 6 after a bout of cold weather.

The 2013 Cherry Blossom Festival runs through April 14; the parade is scheduled for 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, April 13.

More information on the 2013 National Cherry Blossom Festival is available here.

More on the Cherry Blossom Festival and Peak Bloom Guide:

• 2013 Cherry Blossom Peak and DC Festival Guide

• 2013 DC Cherry Blossom Peak Watch: Live Video