NATIONAL CONFERENCE OF STATE SOCIETIES
Schedule of Events
Washington DC Cherry Blossom Events
Stay tuned for more details on events.
Saturday, April 8, 2023
The Junior Cherry Blossom Princess Program is a cultural program and celebration for young girls ages 5 to 12 years old held each year in Washington, DC during the National Cherry Blossom Festival. The 2022 Program will commence with the Sashing event on April 2, 2022 at 2:00 PM. Other events for Jr. Princesses include the Japanese Stone Lantern Lighting, Afternoon Tea/Fashion Show and Grand Ball. RSVP Required
Sunday, April 9, 2023
Japanese Stone Lantern Lighting Ceremony - Join NCSS and the National Park Service for the traditional lighting of the Japanese Stone Lantern, located amidst the cherry blossom trees (map located here). Lantern is approximately 375 years old and weighs over 4,000 lbs and given as a gift by Japan in 1954. Musical Prelude starts at 2:30 PM with ceremony beginning at 3 PM until 4:30 PM.
Wednesday, April 12th, 2023
Congressional Reception - An annual event since the 1950s, the Congressional Reception draws numerous members of Congress and foreign diplomats, who escort Cherry Blossom Princesses representing their respective states, territories, or embassies.
Friday, April 14th, 2023
NCSS Cherry Blossom Celebration - The NCSS Cherry Blossom Grand Ball is the signature event where we celebrate the 2022 Cherry Blossom Queen and crown the 2023 US Cherry Blossom Queen. Join us in celebrating this monumental event.
Saturday, April 15th 2023
National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade - The newly-crowned US Cherry Blossom Queen and her Japanese counterpart make their first public appearance during the National Cherry Blossom Parade presented by Events DC.
Sakura Matusri Japanese Street Festival - The Japan-America Society of Washington DC presents the annual Japanese Street Festival, a vibrant afternoon featuring Japanese food, merchandise, arts and culture.