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BLOSSOMS OF THE SEASON
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By Brianna Hawkins
With every petal that falls to the ground, a memory of their beauty is forever found Amid the winds of spring, cherry blossoms bloom with their sweet perfume. I was recently informed that there is truly nothing more symbolic of springtime at Watergate than cherry blossoms! As spring approaches, one of the most breathtaking sights in the area is the blooming of the cherry blossoms. These delicate pink and white flowers, which typically bloom for only a few weeks in late March and early April, draw millions of visitors to the Washington, DC area each year But what is the history behind these iconic trees?
The story of the cherry blossoms in Washington, DC, began in 1912 when the mayor of Tokyo gifted 3,000 cherry blossom trees to the United States as a symbol of friendshipbetweenthetwonations.
First Lady Helen Taft and the wife of the Japanese ambassador planted the first two trees along the Tidal Basin in a special ceremony. Over the years, more trees were added, and the annual National Cherry BlossomFestivalwasestablishedin1935.
Today, there are more than 3,700 cherry blossom trees in the DMV including around East Potomac Park, on the National Mall and even right here at Watergate at Landmark. These trees not only provide a stunning visual display but also have significant cultural and historical importance.
Cherry blossoms are more than just a pretty sight in the springtime; they’re quite magical in every aspect Not only do they represent the enduring friendship between the United States and Japan and provide an economic boost through tourism, but most importantly, cherry blossoms remind us of the importance of preserving and protecting the natural beauty around us. So, whether you are a resident of the Washington DC metro area or a visitor, take some time this spring to appreciate the beauty and significance of the cherry blossoms
