Cherry Blossom Festival expected to draw big crowds

Washington’s renowned cherry blossoms are set to hit peak bloom starting Saturday, as the National Cherry Blossom Festival is expected to draw large crowds for its annual parade and Japanese street festival. According to the National Park Service, the trees are estimated to be in peak bloom Saturday through Tuesday. The trees have bloomed around the same time for the past two years. The festival will be held at Tidal Basin and National Mall. Festival President Diana Mayhew stated that early mornings are a good time to beat the crowds. This year’s blossoms coincide with the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade Saturday at 10:00 a.m., and the Sakura Matsuri Japanese Street Festival in the afternoon. The National Cherry Blossom Festival concludes on Sunday with the first annual Anacostia River Festival.