D.C. cherry blossom watch: Peak bloom is 3 weeks away

The National Park Service announced its peak cherry blossom bloom prediction: March 22-25. And for the first time since the pandemic began, we'll get to admire the blooms in person, together.

Why it matters: The all in-person return of the National Cherry Blossom Festival is a welcome dose of normal, following two years of postponed, canceled, and virtual celebrations.

• The festival marks the beginning of the busy spring tourism season. This year, visits to the District are expected to continue to rebound from steep pandemic decline.
• The festival will kick off with an opening ceremony on March 20.

Driving the news: This year's National Cherry Blossom Festival marks the 110th year since Japan gifted the District with the trees as a symbol of friendship.

• "Especially now, especially today, we celebrate friendships from peace-loving and freedom-loving people around the world," Mayor Bowser said during the announcement.

What we're watching: Get ready to celebrate with cherry blossom-themed everything for the next couple of months.

• La Croix has already announced its new sparkling cherry blossom drink.
• Metro will release a commemorative cherry blossom card.