Cheery for cherry blossoms

Forget Trump: Washington, D.C., comes to life each spring with boys, blossoms and circuit parties

Spring could be the best time to visit our nation’s capital.

The city becomes quite a spectacle, as the gorgeous weather encourages the 3000+ cherry blossom trees to bloom nearly simultaneously, creating a sight and scent that must be experienced to be believed. Catching the flowers at their peak is a bit of an art. There’s no way to know exactly when the trees will release their lovely, fluttery, fragrant pink and white petals, but Cherry Blossom Watch alerts arboreal enthusiasts with info about the status of the trees.

Currently, the blooms are expected to peak the first week of April, although there are over 10 varieties of cherry trees in the parks and they bloom at they all have their own blooming schedule. Exact timing is not vital for enjoying the blooms.

The most spectacular views are around the Tidal Basin in West Potomac Park, and there are also trees at Hains Point in East Potomac Park, and around the Washington Monument.  Note: take selfies, not souvenirs. No breaking off any branches, please. (It’s illegal destruction of federal property!)

 

 

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The city itself also comes to life with parties and festivals, most notably Cherry DC, a fundraiser for HIV/AIDS organizations in Washington, DC, and the surrounding mid-Atlantic region. Events are spread across four days, and the Cirque de Moodeil show (afternoon of Saturday, April 13) looks interesting, even if just to see inside the opulent restaurant/theater, Sax. Then the main event is the big dance party, Friday night into Saturday morning, April 12-13.

Here are a few pics from past Cherry DC events, to set the mind spinning about going to our nation’s capital for some fun:

 

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Did we mention we love John McCain?

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