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Cold Winter May Delay DC's Cherry Blossom Peak

2/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The National Park Service (NPS) says a cold winter could shift Washington, DC's peak bloom from March to April.
The average peak could land on April 4, per NPS.
Despite the harsh winter, healthy trees include new saplings replacing removed trees.
The shift could extend the cherry season, aligning with the National Cherry Blossom Festival from March 20 to April 12, though historical records show March blooms vary.

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Story summary

The National Park Service (NPS) says a cold winter could shift Washington, DC's peak bloom from March to April.
The average peak could land on April 4, per NPS.
Despite the harsh winter, healthy trees include new saplings replacing removed trees.
The shift could extend the cherry season, aligning with the National Cherry Blossom Festival from March 20 to April 12, though historical records show March blooms vary.