The cherry blossoms are out in Washington DC., marking the start of spring festivities in the city. The Japanese flowers are an annual major tourist attraction. They were in full bloom earlier this week, though heavy rains on Friday took away some of their lustre. Still there is plenty to see and enjoy.

An explosion of color at the Tidal Basin in Washington.

"It’s beautiful. I’ve never seen anything so beautiful in my life."

Perfect weather brought thousands of local and out of town visitors to enjoy the city’s famous cherry blossoms this week. The original saplings were a gift from the Japanese people to the United States in 1912 and are now among the top attractions in the nation’s capital.

"Actually it’s my second time to come here to join the 2014 festival of cherry blossom, so I came back again and I really enjoy it."

The appearance of the blossoms along the rim of the basin has been erratic in some years, but this year they made their debut right on time.

"This is a beautiful city. It’s great for nature. Good for your nerves."

On Saturday, thousands of people lined Constitution Avenue along the National Mall to usher in the National Cherry Blossom festival. It marks the start of springtime and kicks off a host of cultural events and exhibitions throughout the city.

"I’m a veteran of World War Two, and I understand the blossoms were brought here in 1926, so we are of the same age."

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