National Conference of State Societies
United States & Territories Celebration Gala and Crowing of 2023 U.S. Cherry Blossom Queen
The NCSS United States & Territories Celebration Gala is the signature event where our country celebrates the 2022 U.S. Cherry Blossom Queen and the 2023 U.S. Cherry Blossom Princesses and crowns the 2023 U.S. Cherry Blossom Queen.
Join us in celebrating this monumental event at the Capital Hilton with music, dancing, and exciting food stations, including fresh sushi prepared by the Sushi Chefs of Washington, DC. The exciting program includes the introduction of the 2023 Cherry Blossom Princesses and the official coronation of the new U.S. Cherry Blossom Queen with the priceless MIKIMOTO Ceremonial Pearl Crown.
With a fateful spin of the Wheel of Fortune, one Cherry Blossom Princess will be selected as the new 2023 U.S. Cherry Blossom Queen for the 75th anniversary year of the Cherry Blossom Princess Program. The new Queen will be crowned with the Ceremonial MIKIMOTO Cherry Blossom crown, a priceless Japanese work of art gifted to the United States in 1957. The new U.S. Cherry Blossom Queen is gifted a smaller keepsake MIKIMOTO crown and an exquisite MIKIMOTO pearl necklace to wear throughout her reign. As the new U.S. Cherry Blossom Queen, she will serve as a cultural ambassador for the United States, with the opportunity to travel to Japan to engage with top government, business, and cultural leaders.
YOUR FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE
What began with a gift in 1912 at the Tidal Basin is now a four-week extravaganza spanning Washington, DC, and neighboring communities in Maryland and Virginia. From exciting events to convenient hotels, delectable Cherry Picks restaurants, vibrant Art in Bloom installations, and a jaw-dropping City in Bloom to joyful Petal Porches, see the Washington, DC area as you can only see it once a year!
Explore the Festival's Roots
Travel to Japan is open once again, and we invite you experience and explore Japan firsthand. Learn more about the Festival partners who would love to help you plan your trip!
