Photo by Katie Harbath

At 12:57 p.m. today, it officially became spring. And with temperatures in the mid-50s, it actually feels like it!

Today also marks the kickoff of the Cherry Blossom Festival and the first night of the City in Bloom projection project, which covers buildings in D.C. with pink light and blossom shapes. Participating buildings include the Newseum, Arena Stage, Nationals Park and the Wilson Building. For those of us with an extra $200, there’s also tonight’s Pink Tie Party fundraiser at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center.

You can also celebrate the first day of spring and Cherry Blossom Festival with a free shot of cherry vodka at Mari Vanna from 5 to 8 p.m.

Despite the recent snow, the cherry blossoms are expected to reach peak bloom between April 8th and 12th. Peak frustration with tourists (who we really love deep down!) is expected to occur around the same time.