Springtime in Bloom: D.C.’s Cherry Blossoms Draw Crowds

Thousands of visitors and locals are gathering at Washington D.C.’s Tidal Basin this week as the city’s iconic cherry blossoms reach peak bloom, continuing a century-old spring tradition that began with Japan’s 1912 gift of the trees.

Despite ongoing construction on a $113 million seawall restoration project by the National Park Service — which required the removal of several trees, including the beloved “Stumpy,” a half-broken tree mourned by residents — the atmosphere remains celebratory.

The bloom continues to draw thousands despite construction zones, with the cherry blossoms remaining a symbol of renewal, beauty, and cultural exchange.