A very warm winter is helping famed cherry trees in Washington DC perk-up, forcing the National Park Service to update their forecast to show that blossoms may arrive extra-early this year. In an update released today, the National Park Service’s National Mall announced that they expect blossoms to peak between March 14 – March 17, which would be one of the earliest peak times on record. As it did last year, the peak blooms may arrive before most of the National Cherry Blossom Festival is underway. The famous DC cherry trees have bloomed as early as March 15 (1990) and as late as April 18 (1958).
The 2017 National Cherry Blossom Festival kicks off on Thursday, March 16 with a Pink Tie Party. Known as the springtime affair in Washington, the Pink Tie Party stylishly marks the end of winter and the official beginning of blossom season. Proceeds generated by the charity dinner benefit the National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc. a registered 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting the beauty of nature and international friendship through year-round programs, events, and education initiatives that enhance our environment, showcase arts and culture, and build community spirit. Tickets for the event begin at $90.
The official Opening Ceremony of the National Cherry Blossom is scheduled for Sunday, March 25. Hosted at the historic Warner Theatre, the Opening Ceremony event features world-renowned performers welcoming springtime to Washington, DC, celebrating the anniversary of the gift of trees from Japan to the United States. The Opening Ceremony celebrates the new spring season through a showcase of American and Japanese talent.
The National Cherry Blossom Festival continues through mid-April, with a Blossom Kite Festival slated for April 1, a Festival Parade on April 8, and a waterfront fireworks show on April 15.
