Yesterday was the start of the National Cherry Blossom Festival, and many of us are anxiously waiting for their bloom. 

But have you ever wondered why we don’t have the same kind of celebration for other flowers in the US? To answer this question, let’s take a closer look at the history of cherry blossoms in America. We’ll explore their cultural heritage, as well as why they are so beloved by so many. 

And if you’re looking to get your flower fix this spring, stick around and join us on our journey to understand the beauty of cherry blossoms!

History of Cherry Blossoms in the US

In 1912, a special relationship was formed between the United States and Japan that would last for the next century: the gift of 3,000 cherry trees. The Japanese government graciously offered these trees as a token of friendship and peace, while First Lady Helen Herron Taft and Viscountess Chinda respectfully planted the first two at the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC. 

The first ladies of the United States have been staunch supporters of the cherry blossom festival ever since. From Mamie Eisenhower crowning the first queen Janet Bailey in 1953, to Betty Ford inviting princesses to the White House in 1976, to Michelle Obama planting a tree in West Potomac Park in 2012, they have all played their part in helping to sustain this gracious exchange between our two countries. 

But it wasn’t just about giving — it was also about receiving. In 1915, in an act of gratitude and reciprocation, the US government gifted flowering dogwood trees to Japan. And then in 1981, when Japan experienced a devastating flood that destroyed many of their own cherry blossom trees, horticulturists from DC were able to provide cuttings from the original trees so that Japan could start over again. 

The cherry blossom festival has also evolved over time, growing from a single day event in 1927 to two weeks in 1994, and then to an incredible five-week celebration for the 100th anniversary in 2012. 

Most Popular Reasons Why We Love Cherry Blossoms

Every year we are blessed with the sight of cherry blossoms in bloom, and it's a sight that never fails to bring joy to our hearts. But what is it about these delicate little flowers that make them so beloved? Let's take a look at some of the most popular reasons why we love cherry blossoms in the United States. 

1. Arrival of Spring

First and foremost, we love how they signify the arrival of spring. After all, who doesn't enjoy emerging from the cold winter months into the warm embrace of springtime? The sight of cherry blossoms in bloom serves as a reminder that brighter days are ahead and new beginnings are on the horizon. 

2. Renewal and Rebirth

We love that cherry blossoms represent renewal and rebirth. From a spiritual perspective, they remind us to remain open to change and embrace all that life has to offer. From a practical standpoint, they provide us with an opportunity to start fresh and make the most out of each new season. 

3. Beautiful Color and Aroma

Thirdly, we can't help but appreciate their beautiful color and aroma. Whether you're admiring their vibrant pink petals or taking in their delightful scent, they never fail to put a smile on your face. Plus, their unique beauty makes them ideal for photos and Instagram posts. 

4. Ideal Backdrop for Photos

Speaking of photos, cherry blossoms make an ideal backdrop for shots of all kinds. Whether you're snapping a picture with friends or capturing a special moment in time, a cherry blossom tree is sure to make your photo stand out from the rest. 

5. National Cherry Blossom Festival

Of course, talking about cherry blossoms isn't complete without the National Cherry Blossom Festival. This event is a great way to spend quality time with family and friends, as well as to appreciate the beauty of these delicate flowers and celebrate their arrival in the United States. 

Famous Cherry Blossom Locations

The cherry blossoms are blooming, the birds are chirping, and you’re probably already thinking about where you’ll be taking your next cherry blossom-themed vacay.

Lucky for you, we here at GetOutPass have compiled a list of the best and most famous cherry blossom locations in the United States. So pack your bags and get ready to experience the beauty of nature — minus all the pesky pollen.

Washington D.C.

Washington, D.C. is the place to be if you’re looking for a picture-perfect cherry blossom experience. After all, what other city can boast of having over 3,000 cherry trees within its limits? This is your chance to join the hordes of people that flock to the Tidal Basin in March and April to take part in the spectacle of nature.

Macon, GA

If you’ve never been to Macon, Georgia, you’re seriously missing out… on the annual transformation of the city into a pink paradise. That’s right — 300,000 Yoshino cherry blossom trees turn the entire city into a giant flowery oasis every spring. The incredible event was started by a horticulturist in the 1970s and has since become a major part of the city's identity.

Seattle, WA

Forget the Golden Gate Bridge — Seattle is where you need to go if you want to catch a glimpse of some serious cherry blossom action. When spring rolls around, the University of Washington quad turns into a real-life Candyland with its 130 cherry blossom trees.

What's more, Japan has been so generous as to donate a whopping 18 cherry blossom trees to the UW campus — does it get any better than that? It's like the folks at Tokyo Tower just said to themselves: "Hey, let's make Seattle even prettier!" And who can blame them? It's not every day you get to see a college campus turned into a pastel-hued dreamscape.

Conclusion

Cherry blossoms in the United States are truly a sight to behold and should be appreciated by all. After all, when else can one have the opportunity to marvel at such beauty in bloom, only to watch it fade away into the ether? It’s almost as if they were never there.

But that's okay, because we know they will be back next year, and with them, so too will come new adventures and memories. So don’t miss out on this unique experience — enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms this March in the United States!