History of the Cherry Blossom Princess Program

The National Cherry Blossom Festival annually commemorates the 1912 gift to the city of Washington of 3,000 cherry trees from Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo. The gift was designed to enhance the growing friendship between the United States and Japan and celebrate the continued close relationship between the two peoples. Today more than 700,000 people visit Washington each year to admire the blossoming cherry trees that herald the beginning of spring in the nation's capital and celebrate the close and special Japanese-United States friendship.

Since 1948, state societies have selected accomplished young women to share their state's rich culture, traditions, and history with national and international visitors and dignitaries at the annual Cherry Blossom Festival and abroad. These young women ambassadors are called "Cherry Blossom Princesses." The Cherry Blossom Princesses participate in educational, leadership, and cultural activities as they serve their nation and respective state. Today more than 2,500 young women have participated in the NCSS Cherry Blossom Princess Program and it remains a great gateway for cultural exchange and friendship.

Eligibility

Any female college student who might wish to participate must first seek the sponsorship of her home state society--where she grew up or where she attends college.

Requirements

Cherry Blossom Princesses will represent their respective states in a Congressional Reception, Luncheon and Ball.  Princesses are required to attend events during the day and at night throughout the week, and specific attire is required.  Princesses are also responsible for their accomodations in Washington the week of the Princess Program.

To view the application and additional requirements, please visit http://ncss.typepad.com/my_weblog/about-2009-cherry-blossom-princess-program/.