Cherry Blossoms in D.C. Approach Peak Bloom Stage

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The cherry blossom trees have reached stage five, also known as the puffy white stage, as they move closer to peak bloom, according to the National Park Service (NPS). This announcement was made on March 23, 2025, indicating that the blossoms are fully formed but still closed, just one step away from the much-anticipated peak bloom.

Last year, the cherry blossoms achieved peak bloom on March 17, showcasing the beauty of these iconic trees to thousands of visitors. The timing of this blooming period is influenced significantly by daily temperatures, with historical peak bloom dates ranging from March 15 in 1990 to April 18 in 1958.

Amelia Draper, a meteorologist with Storm Team4, advises that conditions are likely optimal for viewing the blossoms this year, with peak bloom expected between late March and early April. The NPS calculates peak bloom as the point when 70% of the Yoshino cherry blossoms along the Tidal Basin have opened.

The cherry blossom bloom progresses through six stages, as outlined by the NPS:

• Stage 1: Green buds appear
• Stage 2: Florets become visible
• Stage 3: Florets extend
• Stage 4: Peduncles elongate
• Stage 5: Puffy white blossoms
• Stage 6: Peak bloom

As visitors flock to see the cherry blossoms, the Cherry Blossom Festival is underway in Washington, D.C., providing numerous free events to celebrate the fond connection between the United States and Japan. This festival commemorates the donation of 3,000 cherry trees in 1912 by Yukio Ozaki, the then-mayor of Tokyo, to Washington, D.C.

With more than 1.5 million attendees expected, the festival includes a variety of cultural programs, such as a kite festival and the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade. Jeff Reinbold, the superintendent of National Mall and Memorial Parks, spoke about the significance of the cherry trees, stating, “The National Park Service takes great pride in the work we do to care for the stars of this festival — the 3,700 cherry trees, which are both natural and cultural treasures of our city and our nation.”

He further encouraged visitors to become “cherry blossom protectors” to ensure the preservation of these trees for future generations. The peak bloom period marks a highlight for both local residents and tourists, offering moments to enjoy the visual spectacle of these famed blossoms.