Red, White, and Edelweiss.

That’s the theme to this year’s Almond Blossom Festival in Ripon.

For 10 local girls, they’ll have a chance to share their knowledge of the theme on behalf of the ABF grand marshal.

Honored will be the San Joaquin Valley Swiss Club, which is a non-profit organization that preserves Swiss culture via events, traditions, and community gatherings.

The annual Speech Contest will take place Thursday at Ripon City Hall, 259 N. Wilma Ave., beginning at 6 p.m. (5:30 is the social hour), officially kicking off the 64th annual Almond Blossom Festival.

“That’s just the beginning of the fun,” said the Ripon Chamber of Commerce, reminding those who plan to attend to pick up a ticket at Chamber office at 104 S. Stockton Ave., given that seating is limited.

Those vying for the title of Miss Almond Blossom Festival / Miss Ripon are Alayna Sprinkle, Aubrey Carrel, Sydney Isensee, Savannah Parsons-Cunha, Marinah Rodriguez, Hailey Kuennen, Addie Lane, Alexis Zamora, Regan Rodgers, and Isabella Del Toro.

Each of the queen candidates will also be required to sell raffle tickets, do an interview, take part in the annual fashion show, and write an essay.

The Almond Blossom Festival, which is the Ripon Chamber of Commerce’s biggest event, will be held on the weekend of Feb. 19 through Feb. 26., at the Mistlin Sports Park, 1201 River Rd.

For more information, call the Ripon Chamber of Commerce at 209.599.7519 or log on to www.riponchamber.com.