We went to the Japanese-inspired Cherry Blast festival, hosted by Events DC at the Carnegie Library, which was decked out in pink lights in celebration of spring and cherry blossoms. The gathering brought hundreds to experience Japanese street food, drinks, pop culture and a dance party. We snapped UMD's Kira Nickols, DDA's Sara Morgan, Rachel Friedman, and Katie Coyle.
Inside the library were Japanese whiskey and sake tastings, a sushi workshop, and a Japanese art exhibit room with live paintings from international artists. Here, Patricia Lala, SCI's Ravindra Lala, and model Edgar Espinosa.
Outside on the library's lawn, we danced to mixes by DJ LJ MTX and DJ Leko during a Japanese fashion show, followed by a Cosplay competition where competitors dressed as their favorite anime characters. Here, A3 Tech's Derek Chan, Fran Data's Anya Nowakowski, and Bailey Leuchen.
Guests also enjoyed a drift car showcase presented by Hyperfest and USA Drift, where they sat inside fast, colorful cars with neon lights and huge spoilers. Here, Hana Healing Arts' Renata Maniaci, Paul Stuart's Courtney Wells-Fusco, and Angel Boord.
