Sometimes, the show must go on without the main act fully functioning.
That seems to be the case with Washington, D.C.’s National Cherry Blossom Festival this year.
The official peak blossom season is set to begin on Tuesday, March 22. The date for the peak cherry tree blossoming — when more than 70 percent of the trees around the Tidal Basin are in full bloom — was significantly pushed up due to early budding during an almost historic heat spell in early March. Some 80 percent of the trees had buds, but that was followed by sustained days of under 30-degree weather.
As of press time, it was not sure how many of the buds made it through undamaged during last week’s freeze. Some experts were hopeful for most to blossom since the Tidal Basin area itself can have a mitigating effect on freezing weather.
Other festival events are still in full bloom, however, including daily giant drum exhibitions at the Jefferson Memorial, a Japanese street festival downtown, a kite festival on the mall and fireworks.
The annual National Cherry Blossom Parade is scheduled for April 8 along Constitution Avenue. In addition, many of D.C.’s eateries are featuring special cherry cocktails, dishes and desserts.
The festival will run through April 16. Visit [National Cherry Blossom Festival](http://www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org) for more information.
