Peak Cherry Blossom Forecast Released For 2026

Top Image Credit: National Parks Service

Spring is fast approaching, and so are the blooms of flowers all across North America. This includes the famous cherry tree bloom around the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

On Thursday, March 5th, the National Park Service announced its projected peak cherry blossom date for 2026. The peak is expected around late March into early April (between the 31st and 2nd). Still, the forecast for the peak is generally difficult to make beyond ten days, as blossoms will be impacted by weather conditions. Check back in for updates!

What is "peak bloom"?

The peak bloom date is defined as the day when 70% of the Yoshino Cherry blossoms are open, one of many types of cherry trees in the area. Peak bloom usually lasts for several days, with the blooms taking about two to three weeks to reach peak after the appearance of green buds. As buds begin to appear, the forecast peak date will be updated by National Park Service horticulturists.

Past Blooms

Due to variable weather conditions, peak bloom has occurred as early as March 15th (1990) and as late as April 18th (1958).

Visiting the blossoming cherry trees has become a favorite springtime tradition for Americans and tourists alike, dating back to 1912 when Japan gifted the U.S. about 3,000 cherry trees. The cherry trees in Japan have been putting on a show for thousands of years, with the dates of blooms being recorded all the way back to the 9th century. The dates for this year's peak blooms in Japan are expected from late March through late April from north to south across the nation.