Cherry Blossoms near peak bloom in Washington, D.C.

The cherry blossoms are nearing peak bloom this weekend, the first weekend of spring, after entering stage four out of six in the nation's capital, according to the National Park Service.

The next stage is referred to as puffy blossoms.

The predicted full bloom dates for this year are between March 29 and April 1, the service said.

Once at peak bloom, the cherry blossoms, which have become an international attraction at the Tidal Basin and the National Mall in Washington, D.C., last for about one week.