Royalty
National Cherry Queen History
The National Cherry Queen program has been a festival tradition since the beginning. Many of our Queens have traveled nationally and internationally promoting not only the National Cherry Festival, but also the cherry industry and the Grand Traverse region. Our Queens have presented cherry pies to Presidents, represented the National Cherry Festival at other festivals around the country, and participated in many events year-round. Each year, young ladies from all over Michigan compete for the chance to earn college scholarships, and for the opportunity to be a national spokesperson for the National Cherry Festival and the Cherry Industry. This year, we proudly boast scholarship awards of over $12,500.
Queen Selection Process
Our Queen selection competition takes place in two phases; "Selection Weekend" in May, and the "Final Queen Competition" during National Cherry Festival week.
Selection Weekend, May 20 - 21, 2010 at the Great Wolf Lodge:
All initial candidates participate in a series of 4 Judged Interviews, and 1 Cherry Industry Speech Presentation. Each interview lasts approximately 3-4 minutes, and the speech should be no longer than 4 minutes. (Please note that no props, notes, handouts, etc... can be used during your speech except for one 3X5 note card) A panel of judges will assess each candidate during these interviews and speech. The four candidates with the highest points at the end of Selection Weekend will receive a $1,000 scholarship award to the school of her choice, a festival wardrobe provided by YOUNKERS, and advance to the final round of competition during National Cherry Festival Week with all expenses paid while in Traverse City. It is our goal to create a memorable and rewarding experience for all by also incorporating educational and motivational seminars throughout Selection Weekend, and periodically enjoying the amenities of our host facility, the Great Wolf Lodge.
Final Queen Competition, July 3-10, during the 2010 National Cherry Festival:
A new panel of secret judges will assess the qualities of each of the four Queen finalists as they serve as court members to the current Queen at various events. On Wednesday of festival week, each Queen finalist will have an interview with part of the secret judge panel. On Thursday, they will have and interview with the remaining secret judges. A final interview will take place with all judges on Friday of festival week. The new National Cherry Queen and 1st Runner-Up will be announced at the Queen's Coronation Ball. The 1st Runner-Up will receive a total scholarship award of $1,750 and the new National Cherry Queen will receive a total scholarship award of $8,250!
Although becoming National Cherry Queen is ultimately the goal, it is our sincere hope that each participant will experience significant personal growth, wonderful memories and experiences, and life-long friendships. To become a candidate for the 2010-11 National Cherry Queen title, download the PDF application file under the "Royalty-Queen Application" section of our web site, or contact the National Cherry Festival office at (800) 968-3380 or (231) 947-4230 to have an application sent to you. Eligibility requirements are listed on the Candidate Contract, and the application deadline is May 1, 2010. Please contact Kay Relyea, Queens Activities Director, for any questions or concerns at (231) 947-4230.
