The CDC and Mayor Bowser has called for social distancing and has cancelled the Cherry Blossom events. But human intervention cannot stop nature from doing it’s magical thing.

I visited the Cherry Blossoms on both days this weekend and saw no reason to worry.

Yes, there were groups of people walking, but they were likely family members or roommates who are not required to maintain social distancing.  The numbers truly wasn’t huge by any measure and there was lots of open space to maintain your distance. It was definitely the most scarce and separated I’ve ever seen it, by far.

TIDAL BASIN ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON AT 1:30PM, 22 MARCH 2020

People were steadily walking, very few people were congregating and I rarely got within six feet of anyone.  No one talked to me and everyone seemed to understand the importance of social distancing.

There’s really no need to take draconian measures. People need to get out to get some fresh air, walk and exercise.  People were generally respectful of each other’s boundaries and it’s important to treat people like adults.

This is going to be a very long lockdown. If you can’t allow Washingtonians to civilly get some fresh and clear the mind during this short-lived magical time, then many will likely feel isolated and lose their mind.