59th Cherry Blossom Festival Search Completed
Applications for the 59th Cherry Blossom Festival are no longer being accepted. A new application for the 60th Cherry Blossom Festival will be available in the summer of 2011. For inquiries, please contact cbfhawaii@gmail.com.
Application Information
59th Cherry Blossom Festival Queen Contestant Application packet includes qualification requirements, application instructions, application form and an estimated time commitment overview.
From September through January, the Queen Contestants are given the opportunity to learn about their Japanese heritage, improve their poise and public speaking and develop leadership skills through numerous cultural and training classes. From January through March they will participate in the Festival's wide range of events, from Fashion Show to Festival Ball - where the 59th Cherry Blossom Festival Queen and Court will be selected.
Applicants must be of at least 50% Japanese ancestry and between the ages of 19 and 26 years old. A completed application form, proof of Japanese ancestry and $30 application fee are required. The postmark deadline has been extended until August 16, 2010. Only the first (75) completed applications will be considered. Please see application for a complete list of eligibility requirements.
Queen Contestant Experience
As a 59th Cherry Blossom Festival Queen Contestant you will be awarded a variety of cultural classes, professional development training and image management consultation. Contestant awards may include an appearance dress, an evening gown and the use of a furisode kimono for Festival Ball.
Cultural classes may include: ikebana (flower arranging), origami (paper folding), tea ceremony, odori (dance), koto (musical instrument), calligraphy (brush art), taiko (musical instrument) and Japanese history.
Semi-finalist are provided training and instruction in the use of kimono, make-up application, etiquette, poise, stage presence and public speaking.