DC Cherry Blossoms Reach Stage 1
DC's cherry blossoms have reached "stage 1" (green buds), kicking off the National Cherry Blossom Festival with Japanese-inspired experiences and themed teas [https://wusa9.com/article/features/cherry-blossoms/dc-cherry-blossoms-2026-stage-1/65-de5582cf-4ce2-4af4-ac15-c2bb5ffc87f9, https://washingtonian.com/2026/03/11/spots-for-cherry-blossom-afternoon-tea-around-dc].
The National Cherry Blossom Festival includes a Japanese Street Fair on April 11th and 12th, featuring food, art, and performances that celebrate Japanese culture. The festival continues through April 13th, offering a variety of events beyond just viewing the blossoms. Several spots around D.C. are offering cherry blossom-themed afternoon teas, including The Hay-Adams, featuring pastries and teas inspired by the blossoms. Empress Lounge at The Mandarin Oriental is another option for a themed tea experience. Stage 1 signifies that the green buds are visible, but it will take warmer temperatures for them to progress to the next stages. The peak bloom date, when 70% of the Yoshino cherry blossoms are open, is still to be determined and is weather-dependent.
