The U District Cherry Blossom Festival is back for its fourth year and over 80 businesses are participating with cherry and blossom-themed specials across the neighborhood.

The peak bloom date is defined as the day when 70% of the Yoshino cherry blossoms are open. Peak bloom varies annually depending on weather conditions. The most likely time for peak bloom is between the last week of March and the first week of April.

Thursday marks the first day of Spring and D.C. is officially on cherry blossom watch! The National Park Service has predicted peak bloom from March 28 to April 1 but there are plenty of festivities kicking off to celebrate the new season.