D.C. Cherry Blossoms Almost At Peak Bloom

WASHINGTON (WJZ) -- The cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C. are almost at peak bloom. Thousands are flocking to the Tidal Basin to see the breathtaking trees.

Amy Yensi has more on the springtime tradition.

Pink and white flowers are slowly but surely popping up around the Tidal Basin.

"After it's been so cold all these months, it's good to see people out and about. It's so much fun. I mean, the whole city turns pink," said Linnea Jordan, visiting from Dallas.

Trees that stood bare all winter get a punch of color, just in time for the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, D.C.

"It just makes me happy and feel good," said Sawyar Bovaird.

People stopping by to capture nature's art are seeing less of it -- the wintry weather forcing the National Park Service to revise its peak bloom prediction.

Starting Wednesday, about 70 percent of the trees will start to blossom.

"My expectation? The bar was set pretty high. I mean, I think it's beautiful. It's lived up to everything," said Christine Cermak, from Dallas.

"The next few days are going to be beautiful. We anticipate them going through the weekend," said Diana Mayhew, president, NCBF. "And then depending on the weather, we'll see how long they last beyond that."

People say the trees may not be in full bloom, but even the buds are a welcome sign that warmer days are ahead.

"It's great to see the flowers sort of symbolize this new beginning and a fresh start," said Tina Noohi, visiting from San Diego.

The 3,000 trees -- a gift from Japan in 1912 -- are celebrated every year with four weeks of events, culminating with a parade and fireworks.

"Winter just passed, and I think they're just recovering from the cold," said Bailey Mills.

Once in bloom, the flowers can last only four to ten days -- a reminder in this fast-paced city to stop and take in the view before it's gone.

There are several performances and activities happening over the next few days, but the parade is a favorite. That's on April 16th.