Angelica Smith shines at the Palisades Fourth of July Parade.

By MASSOV Contributor | July 4, 2025

Nestled along the Potomac River in Northwest Washington, D.C., the historic township of Palisades—established in 1800—came alive with red, white, and blue spirit for its 59th Annual 4th of July Parade. This year’s celebration was more than just a neighborhood tradition of pride, pageantry, and powerful representation.

A Queen Among Queens

Among the parade’s most dazzling highlights was the appearance of Angelica Smith, the reigning Ms. Universal Petite 2025. Angelica, a proud Washingtonian advocate for empowerment and representation, was driven in style down MacArthur Boulevard in a sleek gray Posh Boxer. At the wheel? None other than legendary radio and television personality Alvin Jones—creator of BET’s iconic “Rap City” and host of “Quiet Storm” on WHUR-FM.

Angelica’s presence was regal yet grounded, waving to the crowd with grace and humility. She was joined by a vibrant court of fellow pageant queens, each representing their titles and communities, adding glamour and sisterhood to the festivities. The DMV’s Ms. Universal Petite delegate brought grace, warmth, and inspiration to the 59th Annual Palisades Community 4th of July Parade. As she made her way down the parade route, Angelica didn’t just wave from the float—she connected.

Residents lined the streets, and Angelica made it a point to engage with them, exchanging smiles, handshakes, and heartfelt conversations.

Marching to the Beat of Community

The electrifying sounds of several Marching bands kept the parade's rhythm lively. Their precision, energy, and hometown pride echoed through the streets, drawing cheers from families lining the sidewalks with lawn chairs, flags, and frozen lemonade in hand.

A Civic Celebration

Angelica’s day was more than ceremonial. She was honored to meet D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and At-Large Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie. Their exchange was warm and purposeful, with Angelica expressing her commitment to uplifting the District’s communities through service, mentorship, and cultural engagement.

Looking Ahead: From D.C. to Chicago

As the sun sets on the Palisades celebration, Angelica’s journey continues. She’ll soon head to Chicago to pass on her Ms. Petite USA crown at the national pageant held July 9–12 at the Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel. While transitioning from one title to the next, Angelica remains steadfast in her mission.

“Being Ms. Universal Petite isn’t just about a crown—it’s about community,” Angelica shared. “I’m committed to supporting the District of Columbia and seeking new opportunities to work alongside the people and neighborhoods that shaped me.”

A Community Moment at the Parade’s End At the parade's conclusion, Angelica continued to exemplify community spirit as festivities shifted to the Palisades Recreational Center. She mingled with families, took photos, and answered questions from curious onlookers. Several residents inquired about the Ms. Universal Petite Pageant—what it stands for and how it inspires women of all sizes and backgrounds. Two girls, eyes shining with admiration, asked Angelica how they could become Ms. Petite Queens someday. Angelica didn’t just answer, she was inspired. She shared key facts about the pageant’s mission and encouraged the girls to dream big, reminding them that confidence, community service, and authenticity are the true crowns.

A Sisterhood of Queens Angelica also introduced the crowd to other pageant winners and former contestants who had joined her for the day. Together, they formed a lively circle of mentorship and representation, showing the community that pageantry is about more than just beauty; it's about leadership, advocacy, and sisterhood.

From the parade route to the picnic grounds, Angelica Smith turned a celebration into a moment of connection, leaving a lasting impression on the Palisades community and inspiring the next generation of queens.