Cherry blossoms burst into peak bloom in Washington D.C.

Originally presented to the U.S. as a gift from Japan, tourists flock to see the annual bloom. Joy Malbon reports.

It is one of the most anticipated announcements in Washington, D.C.: When will the cherry blossoms bloom?

The National Parks Service declared that the pink petal rite of spring has already “sprung.”

“We went out, took the inventory and indeed we’re past that magic 70 per cent number of the trees that are in bloom, so we are officially in peak bloom,” Mike Litterst of the National Park Service said.

Bursting along the water of the Tidal Basin and the National Mall, it is one of Washington’s biggest tourist attractions. Millions come from all over the world just to see the endless flowery clouds of pale pink flowers.

And yes, it’s a pretty big deal. People are willing to face a crush of crowds to take in the smells and the sights, and of course get that perfect picture or selfie with the cherry blossoms. It’s almost become a competitive sport as photographers angle for that perfect shot.

Canadian Kyle Azavedo told CTV News, “it’s really trial and error, just take all the angles you can.”

Nandini Arumugam said, “I’m not a photographer, but you know I try to take pictures every year... but I feel that every year this just gets prettier.”

This floral display began back in 1912 with a diplomatic gift of more than 3,000 cherry trees from the Mayor of Tokyo to the people of the United States. It was a symbol of peace between two nations, once at war. With the U.S. engaged in another conflict with Iran, many are reflecting on that among the pink petals.

Joe Zelaya from Mexico told CTV News, “I think coming here at this time, it kind of helps us reflect a little more on why we’re involved. You know, another war and what it’s going to lead to. What’s the purpose of it at this point?”

Marsha Rose Davis wore a Marine hat in honour of her father who served. “I’m reflecting on that every moment of the day,” she said. “I’m just appalled at what’s happening in this country with that war. That’s all I can say about that.”

The cherry blossoms are a welcome distraction, as faithful flower fans come to see nature all dressed up.

Baby Roman is just two months old, and already sporting a cherry blossom onesie. “I couldn’t wait to bring him here. I think they’re so pretty, so gorgeous, and every year I make sure I’m here,” his mother, Anna-Regina Galvez said.

As people pose and have picnics among the pink petals, Washington local Tom had some advice. “You have to be out here to enjoy and appreciate all this beauty because you know in a few days, it’s all just going to blow away.”

The Cherry Blossom Festival runs from March 20th through to April 13.