Alessandra Maria Evangelista is from St. Croix in the United States Virgin Islands and is a third-year undergraduate at American University studying International Studies. She recently returned from a semester abroad studying in Madrid, Spain. She is an executive Board member of the Sisterhood for International Engagement. Alessandra is the daughter of Richard Esq. and Wanda Evangelista.Â
Alessandra will represent the U.S. Virgin Islands during Cherry Blossom Princess week, which will run from Sunday, April 7, 2024 to Saturday, April 13, 2024.
Come on out and support any of the public events during Cherry Blossom Princess week.Â
Sunday, April 7, 2024 at 3pm (FREE)Â
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 lbsÂ
and given as a gift by Japan in 1954. Musical Prelude starts at 2:30 PM with ceremony beginning at 3 PM and runs until about 4:30 PM.Â
Friday, April 12, 2024 at 6:30pmÂ
Join top officials and diplomatic leaders for one of our nation’s most beloved springtraditions – theOfficial NCSS States & Territories Celebration Gala!Â
Enjoy fabulous food created by the Capital Hilton’s amazing Chef and his team,fresh sushi prepared by the Sushi Chefs of Washington, delicious desserts, and anopen bar. Music and dancing start immediately, we will present our traditionalprogram featuring special guests, the introduction of the 2024 Cherry BlossomPrincesses, and the official coronation of the new United States Cherry BlossomQueen featuring the priceless MIKIMOTO Ceremonial Crown.Â
Time: 6:30 PM to 10 PMÂ
Location: Capital Hilton, 1001 N. 16th St. NW, Washington, DC 20001Ticket Pricing:$300 – adults 16 and over | $275 – children up to 15 years oldParking: Hotel – Valet Only $59.00Â
To purchase tickets click here: NCSS Celebratory Gala TicketsÂ
Saturday, April 13, 2024Â
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.Â
Sakura Matsuri 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.
