We may average a trace of snow in April but when the Cherry trees begin to put on their dazzling display of color and fragrance no one's thoughts , not even a snow lover's, turn back to winter. This year marks the 45^th year of the festival which runs from this Saturday, March 31st, through Sunday, April 15th.

On March 27^th, 1912 with little fan fare First Lady Helen Taft and Viscountess Chinda, the wife of the Japanese ambassador planted the first two cherry trees. That year some 3000 trees of 12 varieties were shipped to Washington.  Now some 84 years later the blooming of the trees is how Washingtonian's mark the arrival of spring.

Peak bloom has arrived as early March 15 in 1990 and as late as April 18^th in 1958. This year we are right on the average peak bloom of April 4 or 5. The single white blossoms belong to the Yoshino trees. Akebono have a single pale, pink blossom. When the blossoms are in peak bloom you have 10 – 12 days to enjoy them. After they bloom wind is their biggest enemy. Next week will be turning colder and windy.  The 3500 to 3800 trees, depending on whom you talk to, that line the tidal basin will attract more than 700,000 visitors.  Take the Metro it will save you parking headaches. More info on the festival can be found on wusa9.com .