Ninabella Arlis (C’26, B’26) is a senior pursuing a joint degree between the College of Arts and Science and the McDonough School of Business. Originally from Illinois, she enjoys journalism, pickleball and theatre.
Every spring, DC turns pink.
Whether it’s new Nationals baseball jerseys, cherry flavored coffee specials or post-daylight-savings sunset skies above the Potomac, streaks of pink find their way into just about every corner of life in the District come mid-March. Yes, the streets get busier, reservations get harder and sidewalks around the monuments start to feel like a maze, but that’s part of the fun.
The cherry blossom season isn’t just a tourist attraction. As a student, it’s something you learn to experience between classes, deadlines, and everyday life.
Here’s how to do it right, from a Georgetown senior.
Time It Right (But Don’t Stress)
Keep an eye out for “peak bloom” announcements. Publications like the Washingtonian love to predict the magical week when about 70% of blossoms are open.
It’s beautiful — and very crowded.
But here’s the secret: if you miss peak bloom by a few days, you’re completely fine. Early blooms feel full of anticipation, and late blooms bring falling petals that turn the city into something cinematic. DC in early spring is still spectacular, the festival energy is still buzzing, and partially bloomed trees surrounded by thousands of others is still a whole vibe.
The Tidal Basin is the classic destination. And yes, it’s worth it. But it’s also crowded. The best route from campus is walking or biking, which takes about half an hour. If you have less time to spare, riding the Metro to the Smithsonian stop also gets you quite close.
Experience the Season Beyond the Trees
The cherry blossom season is more than a photo op; it’s a full cultural moment. The National Cherry Blossom Festival honors the 1912 gift of cherry trees from Japan and has weeks of programming.
One of the most iconic events is the Blossom Kite Festival, where hundreds of kites fill the sky over the National Mall. It’s colorful, a little chaotic, and completely joyful, whether you bring your own kite or just watch from the grass.
Run (or Cheer!)
The Cherry Blossom 10 Mile Run and 5K offer lottery tickets to enjoy the blossoms at a quicker pace. Even if you don’t snag a spot, signing up for a smaller race like the Congressional Cemetery 5K, going to support friends or running alone in the early morning are all wonderful ways to experience the spirit
Taste the Season
Cherry blossom season brings some of the best limited-time flavors in the city. My go-to Georgetown stops include Compass Coffee and Levain Bakery, with cherry-inspired lattes, iced teas, and baked goods that feel like spring in a cup.
For a longer, cozier break, Kramerbooks & Afterwords Cafe offers an afternoon tea experience in Dupont Circle.
Do Something Creative
Spring also brings out DC’s creative community. Check out workshops from Made in DC, especially their Georgetown location, along with art markets and small shows and concerts that pop up throughout the city. It’s an easy way to engage with the season beyond just sightseeing.
Cherry blossoms arrive right when the semester feels the busiest with midterms, group projects, packed schedules, but they don’t last long.
So go, even if you’re busy. Especially if you’re busy.
