Cherry Blossom Festival- Washington, D.C.

Without a doubt, Washington is at it’s most beautiful in the spring. Down at the tidal basin, it doesn’t get much better than those fleeting few weeks in March or April when the cherry blossoms bloom, and the entire area is transformed into a pale pink dream. Some years are better than others; harsh weather and high winds can destroy the delicate blossoms. But, when the weather cooperates, the experience is downright heavenly.

The idea of cherry trees around the tidal basin predates the official planting by almost 25 years; during her first trip to Japan, National Geographic board member Eliza Scidmore encountered the trees, and was moved by their delicate beauty. Upon return, she floated the idea of planting them around the waterfront to anyone who would listen, including First Lady Helen Taft. She even offered to donate trees to the District. Upon hearing of the offer, Japanese chemist Jokichi Takamine, who discovered adrenaline, offered up another 2000 trees.

These trees arrived in January of 1910; unfortunately they were infested with insects, and were immediately burned. Concerned that offense would be taken, the Secretary of State expressed regret to the Japanese ambassador, who responded with a donation of 3020 additional trees, of 12 different varieties. The new batch sailed from Japan to Seattle on February 14, 1912, a Valentine’s Day gift of sorts. Just over a month later, on March 26, 1912, the trees arrived in Washington by rail.

The very next day, First Lady Helen Taft and the wife of the Japanese ambassador, Viscountess Chinda, planted the first two of the trees on the north bank of the Tidal Basin, where they remain to this day. Over the next seven years, over 1800 Yoshino trees, with their single white blossom, were planted around the basin, interspersed with Akebono’s, that produce a single pale pink blossom. The remaining cultivars were planted in East Potomac Park.

In 1927, a group of children reenacted the first planting, which is now considered the first Cherry Blossom Festival. Several years later, in 1934, it was made an annual celebration, honoring the lasting friendship between Japan and the United States. Although suspended for several years during World War II, it has occurred every year since, with National Park Service horticulturists determining the dates based on peak bloom projections. Due to varying weather conditions, this can be as early as mid-March, or as late as mid-April.

To walk around the basin during this time is downright magical. Those who visit at the end of the festival will be showered in delicate white petals, which adds to the surreal experience. Make no mistake, it will be crowded. Arrive early, and walk completely around the basin. You will be rewarded with stunning views of the monuments, and occasional moments of solitude.

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