Many years ago, the founders of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® had a vision that they worked tirelessly to bring to life. Today, it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors.
The Billy Graham Family has been coming since 1972, when Rev. Graham was Grand Marshal. This year his great granddaughter will be the 98th Queen of the Festival as announced by Jeremy Luttrell, Festival president.
Mary Clare Davis, a junior at Grace Christian High School in Staunton, VA, will reign as Queen Shenandoah XCVIII. She is the daughter of Maury and Noelle Davis and granddaughter of Ruth Bell Graham. Noelle was queen of the Festival in 1993.
Mary Clare shares, “I’m so excited and honored to be Queen-designate for the 98th Apple Blossom Festival! This event has held a special place in my family’s heart for so long. I cannot tell you how thrilled I am to take part in such a cherished tradition. The festival represents so much joy, and I’m beyond excited to celebrate with everyone this year.”
She plays varsity basketball at Grace Christian. The Cinderella team had a winning season and became 2025 VACA girls state champions. During her freshman year she was part of Memory’s Hill Stable IEA team. She is involved in her church community where she serves as a student leader and a sponsor for sixth grade girls. Last summer Mary Clare served on a mission trip with Street Ranch Ministries in Memphis and will be returning this June. Getting to pour into others and to be a part of a Christ-centered community are important to her.
Mary Clare says, “The arts are a big part of my life, especially poetry and music. Whether I’m singing, writing, or just getting lost in a great song, creativity is where I feel most at home.” Outside of music, she loves photography, spending time with her friends, and spending time outside, especially with her “sweet duckies”.
The 5’9” Queen-designate concluded, “Being part of the Apple Blossom Festival this year is truly a dream come true, and I can’t wait to take part in all the festivities. I’m so looking forward to meeting new people, making unforgettable memories, and celebrating everything that makes this festival so special!”
The family tradition will continue at the Coronation on Friday, May 2, at 1:30 p.m. at John Handley High School where Mary Clare will be crowned by her mother, Noelle. The Shenandoah Valley Royal Family will attend many functions during the Festival and will be seen coming through city streets in the Hang 10 Firefighters’ and Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parades.
Tickets to festival events are available here.
