COLLEGE PARK, Maryland — Come springtime, locals and tourists are on the lookout for one thing: the cherry blossoms. During the highly anticipated spring season, light pink petals sweep the streets of Washington.
This year, however, the unseasonably cold weather has pushed back the peak bloom window—when 70 percent of the blossoms are open—multiple times. As of now, the National Park Service predicts peak bloom will be April 5-8.
For those seeking the best views of the blossoms, there are several must-visit spots throughout Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia.
People are celebrating cherry blossom season and posting their pictures on social media.
Early morning stroll means cherry blossoms sans humans. A rare sight this time of year. ??? #CherryBlossomDC pic.twitter.com/yK0tYtnkDA
— Matt Wade (@thatmattwade) April 3, 2018
Our dear friend, Rocky, striking poses and enjoying the beautiful cherry blossoms. #DCPolice #HeretoHelp #Rocky #CaninePatrolUnit pic.twitter.com/5teLn4xQvO
— DC Police Department (@DCPoliceDept) April 5, 2018
A1 I’m in the land of the cherry blossom tourist, D.C. #CheapOairChat pic.twitter.com/RQYoVxuOMd
— Chris Militzer (@miliman12photos) April 3, 2018
DC folks: this is your annual reminder not to post pictures of magnolia trees captioned “Cherry blossoms!” You will look like an idiot and I will publicly shame you. #CherryBlossomDC
— Taylor Jackson (@TayCJackson) March 30, 2018
Retweet if you think this is SO beautiful!!! Cherry Blossoms ??almost to peak bloom! pic.twitter.com/HgmNIqvE90
— Caroline Patrickis (@Cpatrickis) April 4, 2018
In case you miss peak bloom, the National Cherry Blossom Festival parade will be held on April 14.