By Allison Larson
California News Service
It’s not too late to take in the cherry blossoms! The pink and white flowers were in full bloom last weekend and the sudden warm weather has kept them flourishing. The 78th annual Cherry Blossom Festival spans from March 20th to April 15th, commemorating Japan’s gift of the trees to the city of Washington.
There are similar celebrations in the Bay Area and downtown Los Angeles, but Washington’s blossoms symbolize a century-old tradition. In 1912 the trees were donated by the city of Tokyo as a gesture of the bond between Japan and the United States. The festival became an annual event starting in 1935. The budding trees, like monuments to American heroes and wars, are among Washington’s favorite attractions.
The flowers can be seen in Scott Circle right outside the UCDC building, in hues that range from white to glowing pink. They bloom in mass and quickly fall, indicating spring’s arrival.
For optimal viewing and less congestion, head to the Tidal Basin during the early morning hours. The Smithsonian Metro Station is about a 15-minute walk to the steps of the Jefferson Memorial. Hop on the Orange and Blue line at Farragut West. Or you can make the 40-minute walk past the Washington monument and through the throng of tourists.
Take advantage of the paddle-boats on the water or bike on the trails along iconic sites. Food trucks offering various cuisines are stationed near the Jefferson Memorial. Earlier in the week, an A cappella group covered The Beatles’ “All My Loving” on the grass. On Saturday a military swing band performed during fireworks over the houseboats in the South West.
It is estimated that over 700,000 people will visit the Washington area to catch a glimpse of these trees. The influx of people may seem daunting but the trees are at their peak marking the end of winter for the East Coast.
The California News Service is a journalism project of the University of California’s Washington Center. Allison Larson is a soon-to-be graduate from UC Davis.