As spring approaches, the cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C., and its surrounding areas come into full bloom, bursting into a spectacle of pink and white that draws more than a million visitors every year.

Spring's pink pageant is unfolding at the University of Washington, where the Quad's iconic Yoshino cherry trees are nearing peak bloom, an annual tradition that draws thousands of visitors to campus.

Tiny Marshfield has a population of 7,300 that blooms with its cherry blossoms each April. Instead of a traditional spring or international cultural festival, this cherry blossom shindig is a showcase of Americana and Missouri heritage beneath the town’s beautiful blooms.

On Tuesday, the National Park Service stated that the cherry blossoms along the Tidal Basin had reached Stage 1 (green buds) on their way to peak bloom.

Many of the city's popular tea services go all-out with cherry blossom-themed blends, bites and decor. State of play: Afternoon tea is increasingly popular in D.C., especially at luxury hotels — though more casual places are joining the fun (most require reservations regardless).

We were able to go to the festival years ago when I was in the Army and we lived in Petersburg, Virginia, and it was spectacular!