One of my favorite times of year in Washington D.C. is the Cherry Blossoms blooming season! In fact D.C. is famous for its stunning cherry blossom trees all across the world.
In 1912, the Mayor of Tokyo, Japan, Yukio Ozaki, gifted 3,000 cherry blossom trees to the city of Washington D.C. as a symbol of friendship between the United States and Japan. The gift was made in honor of the 300th anniversary of Washington D.C.
The first set of cherry blossom trees were shipped from Japan, but upon arrival, they were found to be infested with insects and disease. To prevent the spread of the infestation, the trees had to be burned. The Japanese government graciously sent a new shipment of trees in 1915, which were successfully planted all around Washington D.C.
Today, the cherry blossom trees are a major attraction in Washington D.C., with thousands of visitors coming each year to see the beautiful pink and white blossoms. The annual National Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates the enduring friendship between the United States and Japan and is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and diplomacy.
These are just a few of the many places to see cherry blossoms in D.C. The best time to see the cherry blossoms can start in late March to early April. The exact timing can vary from year to year depending on weather conditions. I like to keep track to the predicted peak bloom from the National Park Service.
See more of my favorite sessions with Cherry Blossom Trees around D.C.
Erica Harrison is a Northern Virginia Photographer, living in Charlottesville while photographing wedding and families in Old Town Alexandria, Washington D.C., Fairfax, & Leesburg.