FULL BLOOM

Thousands of visitors frequent our nation's capital to see the beautiful pink and white blossoms that usher in springtime. But you may not know the history behind this lovely spectacle: In 1912, as a thank-you for America's support during the 1905 Russo-Japanese War, Japan gave a shipment of 3,020 Yoshino cherry trees to First Lady Helen Herron Taft, who had them planted around the Tidal Basin and at several national landmarks. The National Cherry Blossom Festival, held since 1935, has become a beloved multicultural celebration. Events run from March 25-April 8. On March 31, see the festival parade and the Sakura Matsuri Festival, a street fair teeming with Japanese culture. Be sure to reserve parade tickets in advance. See <www.gwjapan.com/cherryblossom> for details.