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Cherry Blossom Festival Runs April 2026, Expect Heavy Traffic

3/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The National Cherry Blossom Festival runs through April 12, 2026, with peak bloom March 29–April 1, 2026, and about 1.5 million visitors.
The National Park Service (NPS) expects heavy traffic at the Tidal Basin during the festival.
District Department of Transportation (DDOT) urges using public transit to reduce congestion near the Tidal Basin.
Japan gifts 250 cherry blossom trees to the United States for its 250th birthday.

History

Historical Context

In 1912, Japan gifted 3,000 cherry blossom trees to the United States, facilitated by Tokyo Mayor Yukio Ozaki, to symbolize friendship. These trees were planted in Washington, D.C., and have since become a major tourist attraction. The National Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrating this gift, draws approximately 1.5 million visitors annually, emphasizing cultural exchange and international relations.

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Story summary

The National Cherry Blossom Festival runs through April 12, 2026, with peak bloom March 29–April 1, 2026, and about 1.5 million visitors.
The National Park Service (NPS) expects heavy traffic at the Tidal Basin during the festival.
District Department of Transportation (DDOT) urges using public transit to reduce congestion near the Tidal Basin.
Japan gifts 250 cherry blossom trees to the United States for its 250th birthday.

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