Cherry Blossom Blooming Started

Warm weather and abundant sunshine in Washington, D.C., will allow the celebrated cherry trees to blossom earlier than expected.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is from March 27 to April 11 and includes activities such as parades, dinners, fireworks, art displays, musical performances and a 10K race.

March 27 marks the 98th anniversary of when Japan gave Washington, D.C., 3,000 cherry blossom trees to celebrate the nations' growing friendship. This annual two-week event celebrates the beauty of springtime and companionship.

The buds on the cherry trees usually sprout in the early spring but the exact time of blossoming greatly depends on the weather.

This is when 70 percent of the blossoms are open. March 28 through April 9, the blooming period, occurs when 20 percent of the blossoms are open.

The peak date varies each year because it relies on favorable weather conditions. Due to a forecasted beautiful next few weeks in the nation's capital, this may be the year for an early peak date.

These weather conditions should set those trees into an early bloom and ensure a great spring festival.