The 61st annual Almond Blossom Festival is right around the corner.

One of the highlights of this longstanding tradition in Ripon the crowning of queen.

Ten local girls – all are required live in Ripon or attend either Ripon High or Ripon Christian – are vying for the title of Almond Blossom Festiva Queen / Miss Ripon.

This year’s princesses are Ava Brocchini, Kylee Fullmer, Madison Hendley, Anniston Holck, Ava Keast, Payton Miller-Kay, Anika Schooland, Madeline Staley, Madeline Stewart, and Nayeli Zuniga.

Their first step in the queen competition is the speech contest on Jan. 12. Each girl will be required to speak in front of a panel of judges at the kickoff event.

The princesses will later take part in writing a timed essay followed by the fashion show in February.

According to the Ripon Chamber of Commerce: “This is a competition that is steep in tradition and history.

“The winner of the Miss Almond Blossom competition becomes Miss Ripon and reigns for the following year until the next candidate is crowned queen. Miss Ripon serves as a public figure and volunteer at all our Chamber events.”

Riley Perez is the current Miss Ripon.

The Almond Blossom Festival is scheduled from Feb. 23 through Feb. 26. Included will be many events including the carnival and vendor fair at Mistlin Sports Park, the Fun Run, the Main Street parade, and the Diaper Derby.

For more information, log on to www.riponchamber.org/almond-blossom-festival/.