​The selection of Princesses to serve in the Court of Queen Shenandoah XCVII for the 2024 Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® has been announced by festival officials. The princesses include Berkley Ilise Bennett, Alexandra Grace Gluszak, Ella Leilani Kiesewalter, Hannah Grace Lloyd, and Averi Grace Thomas.

​Berkley Bennet is the daughter of Candice and Erich Bennett of Luray, VA. She is the granddaughter of Barbara and Charles Griffin of Littiz, PA and Eileen and Jon Bennett of Norfolk, VA. She is a senior representing Randolph-Macon Academy. She is a varsity letter recipient in volleyball and basketball, serving as captain her junior and senior years. She serves as vice president of the Science National Honor Society as well as the Student Life Committee. Berkley is a member of Luray United Methodist Church and has participated in multiple community service projects. 

​Alexandra “Alexa” Gluszak is the daughter of Jeanette and Thomas Gluszak of Winchester, VA. She is the granddaughter of Mary and Ron Mater of Allegany, NY, Thomas D. Gluszak of Ashville, NY, and the late Leslie Gluszak. Alexa is a senior representing John Handley High School. She has served for four years as the Class of 2024 Student Government vice president. Alexa was named as second team 4A All District for the varsity volleyball team and served as captain for the 2023-2024 season. She is a four-year A honor roll recipient and is the leader of the Class of 2024 project. Additional credentials include selection as the 2023 Homecoming Queen, coordinator of the INOVA blood drive, and membership in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. 

​Ella Kiesewalter is the daughter of Abigail and Torsten Kiesewalter of Cross Junction, VA. She is the granddaughter of Sandra Barr of Puerta Vallarta, Mexico, Christa Jamieson of Homberg, Germany, and the late Randy Barr and Ulrich Kiesewalter. Ella is a senior representing James Wood High School where she is an Honors/AP student. She is a member of the National Honor Society, a varsity letter recipient in cross country and track, and was selected as the 2023 Homecoming Queen. Ella attends Compass Community Church. 

​Hannah Lloyd is the daughter of Sarah Lloyd and Chad Lloyd, both of Winchester. She is the granddaughter of Carla and Tom Lettis of Virginia Beach, VA and the late Charlotte and Joe Lloyd. She is a senior representing Millbrook High School where she has received academic honors. Hannah has served as treasurer of the National Honor Society, as president of Educators Rising and is a member of the Millbrook High School Choral Department. She was named the sociology student of the year and participated in the 2023 Homecoming Court. 

​Averi Thomas is the daughter of Kimberly and Darren Thomas of Stephens City, VA. She is the granddaughter of Darlene and Robert Thomas of Johnstown, PA and the late Barbara and John Sherbondy. She is a senior representing Sherando High School where she served as Senior Class Vice President, is a four-year honor roll recipient, and member of the National Honor Society. Averi participated in the junior Homecoming Court and was named Queen for her senior year. Averi is a varsity letter recipient for both soccer and basketball and is a student leader for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. She is an officer for Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) and a national qualifier for FCCLA state conference. Averi is a member of the national honor society for 2023 and 2024. Averi participates on travel soccer for Blue Ridge United, travel basketball for Supreme Game Changers, and is a member of the Victory Church youth ministry band. 

​The Princesses will accompany Queen Shenandoah XCVII and her Court to all Festival functions throughout the 97th Festival scheduled for April 26 to May 5, 2024. They will participate in the Coronation of Queen Shenandoah presented by Morgan Orthodontics on Friday, May 3, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. at John Handley High School. They will attend the Queen's Ball and Dance Party Presented by Insurance Center of Winchester, to celebrate the coronation of Queen Shenandoah XCVII on Friday, May 3rd at 8:30 pm at The George Washington Hotel Grand Ball Room. They will ride on the Royal Float in the Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parade scheduled at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, May 4, 2024.

The selection of Princesses to serve in the Court of Queen Shenandoah XCVII for the 2024 Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® has been announced by festival officials. The princesses include Jo-Elle Eileen Chesson, Jordyn Alexis Hansbrough, Hailey Marie Johnson, Ashley Anne McGuire, and Samantha Rose Stevens.

​​Jo-Elle Chesson is the daughter of Patricia and Tos Chesson of Acworth, GA. She is the granddaughter of Mary Washington of New York City, NY, Moses Yarssah, Teresa Johnson Gildersleeve, and Joseph J.F. Chesson all of Monrovia, Liberia. She is the goddaughter of Eileen Caldwell of Berryville, VA. She is a freshman at Columbus State University majoring in biology. She is a member of the African Association Club. Jo-Elle is a 2023 graduate of Allatoona High School where she was a member of the Diversity Club and the Minority Representation Association (MRA). Jo-Elle was active with the Grace Lutheran Church Youth Group in Winchester.

​Jordyn Hansbrough is the daughter of Jennifer and John Hansbrough of Winchester, VA. She is the granddaughter of Roberta Ziemer of Wintersville, OH, Luke Wilson of Carrollton, OH, Faye and Robert Hansbrough of Rockingham, VA, and the late Robert Ziemer. A freshman at James Madison University, Jordyn majors in media art and design with a creative advertising concentration. She is a 2023 graduate of Millbrook High School where she was an active member of Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) all four years, earning Vice President of Marketing 2023, International Career Development Conference Emerging Leader 2022, Junior Leader of Marketing in 2021, International Career Development Conference Qualifier 2021, and International Career Development Conference Certified Gold for Millbrook’s School Based Enterprise. While attending Millbrook, she was also a member of the Key Club and National Honor Society. In 2023, Jordyn was the Quota International of Winchester Scholarship Recipient, Winchester Host Lions Club Scholarship Recipient, and the Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative Scholarship Recipient.

Hailey Johnson is the daughter of Heather and Jeffery Johnson of Rappahannock, VA. She is the granddaughter of Nancy Parker of Watertown, NY and Lori Johnson of Duluth, MI. She is a junior representing Shenandoah University where she majors in biology. She is a member of Sigma Rho Delta and Leadership and Educational Development (LED) Fellows as well as a head orientation leader and first year seminar mentor. Hailey is a 2021 graduate of Clover Hill High School and enjoys dancing. She has a special interest in becoming a pediatric physician assistant.

Ashley McGuire is the daughter of Susan and James McGuire of Winchester. She is the granddaughter of Jeanette and Sam Garst of The Villages, FL, Joan McGuire of Arlington, VA, and the late James F. McGuire. She is a first-year student at The University of Virginia where she is majoring in public policy. She is a member of the Club Competition Cheer Team and Younglife. Ashley is a 2023 Millbrook High School graduate who served as President of her class sophomore, junior, and senior years. She was a four-year varsity cheerleading letter recipient and served as cheer captain as well as receiving first team all-district for competition cheer. Ashley was a member of the National Honor Society and District Choir. She was a recipient of the Pioneer award, Sportsmanship award, and Character award during her time spent in varsity athletics. She was a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Millbrook High School’s Younglife. She participated in several high school theater productions and acted in Shenandoah University summer music theater for three years.

Samantha Stevens is the daughter of Andrea and Donald Stevens of Winchester. She is the granddaughter of Darlene and Paul Stevens of Ocean Pines, MD and the late Rose and Stacy Reeves. She is a freshman at Virginia Tech majoring in interior design. She is a member of Alpha Delta Pi Sorority. Samantha is a 2023 graduate of John Handley High School where she was a varsity letter recipient in girls soccer her junior and senior year. She was also a Handley Scholar for 2022 and 2023.

The Princesses will accompany Queen Shenandoah XCVII and her Court to all Festival functions throughout the 97th Festival scheduled for April 26 to May 5, 2024. They will participate in the Coronation of Queen Shenandoah presented by Morgan Orthodontics on Friday, May 3, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. at John Handley High School. They will attend the Queen's Ball and Dance Party Presented by Insurance Center of Winchester, to celebrate the coronation of Queen Shenandoah XCVII on Friday, May 3rd at 8 pm at The George Washington Hotel Grand Ball Room. They will ride on the Royal Float in the Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parade scheduled at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, May 4, 2024.

The selection of Princesses to serve in the Court of Queen Shenandoah XCVII for the 2024 Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® has been announced by festival officials. The princesses include Skylar C. Brown, Caroline Wellington Drummonds, Emma Alexis Drummonds, Lily Eleanor England, and Brigid Grace McCarthy.

Skylar Brown is the daughter of Gena Johnson and Travis Brown both of Gerrardstown, WV. She is the granddaughter of Cynthia Johnson of Colorado Springs, CO, Janet and Duane Brown of Gerrardstown, and the late Charles Johnson. She is a senior at Marshall University majoring in environmental science. She serves as president of the Sustainability Club and vice president of the University’s Chapter of The American Fisheries Society. She is also a member of the Collegiate Society of Black Scholars, Phi Kappa Phi Honors Society, and the National Collegiate Society of Leadership and Success (NSLS). She is on the Marshall University President’s/Dean’s lists and serves as a resident advisor. Skylar is also a Board Member of the national non-profit organization Post Landfill Action Network. She is active in her community by supporting the less fortunate as well as volunteering at food banks, shelters, and soup kitchens. Skylar is a 2021 graduate of Musselman High School. She will be working for the US Forestry Service after graduation as a forestry technician.

Caroline Drummonds is the daughter of Beth and Chuck Drummonds of Winchester, VA. She is the granddaughter of Janet Riddick and Haley Drummonds both of Winchester, and the late Earl Riddick and Roy Drummonds. She is a senior at West Virginia University majoring in business marketing. She is actively involved in the John Champers Business College Peer Mentor Program and PAWS WVU. Caroline is a member of Women in Business and is a recipient of the John Chambers College Business Scholarship. She is a 2021 graduate of John Handley High School. Her mother, Beth Drummonds, served as a princess in the court of Queen Shenandoah LXII, Emily Sikking.

Emma Drummonds is the daughter of Beth and Chuck Drummonds of Winchester. She is the granddaughter of Janet Riddick and Haley Drummonds both of Winchester, and the late Earl Riddick and Roy Drummonds. She is a senior at Radford University graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and Marketing. She is an ambassador for the Davis College of Business and
Economics, a member of Delta Sigma Pi, serving as Chancellor, and is active in the College Mentor for Kids program. Emma is a 2021 graduate of John Handley High School. Her mother, Beth Drummonds, served as a princess in the court of Queen Shenandoah LXII, Emily Sikking.

Lily England is the daughter of Amy and Robert England of Winchester. She is the granddaughter of Bob Mahrenholz of Tullahoma, TN and the late Melba Mahrenholz, Kazuko England, and Robert England. She is a second-year student at The University of Virginia majoring in kinesiology with a minor in data science. She is a member of Chi Alpha campus ministry and took a gap year during the 2022-2023 school year to serve on a mission trip to South Africa, Belize, Costa Rica, and Cuba. Lily is a 2021 graduate of John Handley High School where she was a four-year varsity letter recipient for Cross Country and served as captain her senior year. She was a member of the National Honor Society, the student representative on the Winchester Public Schools School Board, and earned her private pilot
license.

Brigid McCarthy is the daughter of Megan and Douglas McCarthy of Front Royal, VA. She is the granddaughter of Mariah McCarthy of Winchester, and the late R. Edward Costello, Beverley Costello, and Joseph McCarthy. She is a sophomore at Benedictine College where she is an art major and is enrolled in a pre-law track. She is a member of the yearbook committee. Brigid is a 2022 graduate of Chelsea Academy. She served as president of the student government as well as the Ballroom Dance Club and participated in the Yearbook and Journalism Club. She was also a four-year varsity volleyball letter recipient.

The Princesses will accompany Queen Shenandoah XCVII and her Court to all Festival functions throughout the 97th Festival scheduled for April 26 to May 5, 2024. They will participate in the Coronation Ceremony to be held on Friday, May 3, 2024, at 1:30 p.m. at John Handley High School. They will attend the Queen's Ball and Dance Party Presented by Insurance Center Winchester, to celebrate the coronation of Queen Shenandoah XCVII to be held Friday, May 3rd beginning at 8 pm at The George Washington Hotel Ball Room. They will ride on the Royal Float in the Grand Feature Parade scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, May 4, 2024.

​Joy Elizabeth Berlanga has been named Queen Shenandoah XCVII, designate.  Sharen Gromling, president of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® takes great pleasure to make this announcement with the generational significance and this being the 100th anniversary of the Festival’s beginning. Joy is the daughter of Tyne Vance Berlanga, Queen Shenandoah in 2001, and the granddaughter of Susan Ford Bales, Queen Shenandoah 1975. 
 
Joy is excited to follow in the footsteps of her mother and grandmother and eagerly embraces the honor of becoming Queen Shenandoah.  She has heard so many fond memories of their time in Winchester.  She is thrilled to experience it herself!
 
Joy lives in Texas with her parents, Tyne and Hector Berlanga and brother, Cruz. She is a senior at Independence High School. Her passions include gardening, an avid love for books, and finding enjoyment in building Legos. Balancing varsity volleyball and floriculture at school fuels her enthusiasm. Joy’s commitment to her academics resulted in being recognized as a National Hispanic Recognition. She is set to attend Colorado State University in the Fall to major in landscape architecture, aspiring to create beautiful and resilient outdoor spaces and gardens for years to come.
 
The family tradition will continue at Joy’s Coronation on Friday, May 3, at 1:30 p.m. at John Handley High School.  She will be crowned by her mother and grandmother.   Tyne was crowned by her mother, Susan.  Susan was crowned by her father, President Gerald Ford.  Queen Shenandoah, designate, and the Royal Family will attend many functions during the Festival and will be riding their “Royal Float and Coaches” during the Firefighters’ and Grand Feature Parade. 
 
The Festival has been honored to have members of a family to reign as Queen Shenandoah.  This is the first family to reign the stage of time from grandmother to daughter to granddaughter as Queen.
 
Tickets for Festival events are available at www.thebloom.com.  

​Sharen Gromling, president of the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival®, is honored to announce Phil Glaize as Court Ambassador for the Coronation of Queen Shenandoah, Bella Astin, on Friday, May 5, at 1:30 p.m. at Handley High School.  

Philip B. Glaize, Jr. resides in Winchester, VA., where he has managed Fred L. Glaize, L.C. for more than 35 years.  The partnership operates 600 acres of apple orchards in Virginia, in addition to a cold storage facility, packing operations and sales activities.

Phil is the current chairman of the Virginia Apple Growers Association and a past chairman of the Virginia Apple Board and the Eastern Apple Council.  He also served as chairman of the Governor’s Council on Migrant and Seasonal Farm Workers and is past president of the Frederick County Fruit Growers Association.  He is a past chairman of the US Apple Association, whose members are over 9000 apple growers from all 36 apple producing states in the country. In 2022, Phil received recognition as “Apple Person of the Year”; an annual industry award based upon feedback from peers across the country.

Other business affiliations include Old Town Cidery, various rental activities, and membership on the board of directors of Winchester Equipment Co. Community activities include church duties and the Rotary Club. He is past chair of the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum, and current chair of Mt. Hebron Cemetery.

Phil graduated from the University of Vermont with a bachelor’s degree in plant and soil science and a minor in business.  His family includes his wife, Mary Bruce, four children and eight grandchildren.   Leisure activities include golfing, skiing, and hiking.

Tickets are available at www.thebloom.com    

​Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® President Sharen Gromling is pleased to announce that Isabella Louise Astin has accepted the role of Queen Designate XCVI for the 2023 Festival.  Known to family and friends as “Bella, the third daughter of Sean and Christine Astin who resides with her family in California will be returning to Winchester.
 
This year’s theme: LIVE. LOVE. BLOOM reflects the love of the Bloom community as it nears 100 years of celebrating.  How very appropriate it is that the Festival continues to make connections with those the community learned to love over the years and celebrities who loved the Festival back.  As the area gets ready to welcome Bella Astin as its new queen, take a look back at the “Astin years.”
 
In 2004 Sean Astin was the Festival’s Grand Marshal. It was a coup for the Festival as Astin had just finished the three Lord of the Rings films and was known, additionally, for his roles in Goonies and Rudy.   As a family man whose daughter, Bella, was not born until July of the following year, he and the Festival began a relationship. The relationship has lasted nearly 20 years.  Ten years later, 2014, the Astins returned to Winchester for Alexandra Louise Astin, Ali, to become Queen.  Her sister, Elizabeth, followed four years later as Queen in 2018. 
 
This year as Isabella Louise Astin will become the third Astin daughter to be Queen, her father, Sean, winner of multiple acting awards, her mother, Christine, who is an Academy Award nominated producer, and her two sisters will watch as Bella takes the stage on May 5 to be crowned.
 
Bella is a senior at Oaks Christian High School. Her interests include, as well as her usual studies, acting, photography, and film. She is a FemStem student which raises women’s voices in science, technology, engineering and math. She volunteers at the local animal shelter and often photographs the puppies looking for their “forever homes.”
 
Bella is an activist for animal rights and for the environment.  Bella interned with the Felidae Conservation Fund to help wildcats in the California landscape.   Her inspirations are Jane Goodall and Steve Irwin and Bella hopes to produce documentaries of animals in need around the world.  Bella envisions herself behind the camera focused on animals.
 
Queen-designate Bella will attend the Village at Orchard Ridge Queen’s Dinner held in her honor at 5:00 pm on Thursday, May 4. She will appear at various Festival events on Friday, May 5, prior to her crowning at the all-new production of the traditional majestic Coronation, presented by Morgan Orthodontics, showcasing the talent of the youth in her court.    She will ride in the Hang 10 Car Wash Firefighters’ Parade on Friday and then dance evening away at the Realty ONE Group Old Towne Queen’s Ball, presented by Insurance Center of Winchester held in her honor. Queen Bella will reign over the Glo Fiber Grand Feature Parade on Saturday as she sits on her throne atop the Queen’s float accompanied by her maids of honor, little maids and pages. 
 
The Astins are eager to return to Winchester to Live. Love. Bloom once more.
 
For the full Festival schedule, go to www.thebloom.com for all the events, times, tickets, and other festival information. 

​The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® What’s New at the 2022 Bloom-Part Three release below highlights tickets and information for events that are now on sale.  Festival goers are encouraged to order tickets early before popular events sell out.
 
Stonebrook Club Tennis Tournament
The Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® is excited to announce the return of its annual USTA-sanctioned Stonebrook Club Tennis Tournament, presented by Partlow Insurance. Now in its sixth year, the event promises to be competitive and exciting for tennis players of all levels. The success of the tournament grows each year, attracting local and out-of-town tennis players and spectators. To register, visit www.thebloom.com. $50.00 entry fee for single event.  $25.00 entry fee for double events.
 
Registered participants receive tennis-themed items or locally sourced goodies.  Trophies are awarded to champions in each division.
 
The tournament will take place at Stonebrook Club of Winchester on Friday, April 22 through Sunday, April 24, 2022.  Stonebrook Club offers nine courts: four indoor and five outdoor. Two of the outdoor courts are clay-surfaced and lit for evening play.   The facility is in a lovely area of rolling hills and blooming orchards in beautiful Winchester.
 
As the event date approaches, participants and spectators are encouraged to check for updates on www.thebloom.com or social media. You may also contact the Tennis Tournament Committee at [email protected].

​McDonald’s Esports Tournament (New Event)
The McDonald's Esports Competitive Event presented by Shenandoah University Esports is a tournament-style event offering Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Fortnite competitions hosted at the Shenandoah University Esports Arena. The event will be held on Sunday, April 24th and will run from 10am to 5pm EST. This event requires a registration fee to enter and must be submitted by 11pm EST on Saturday, April 23rd. A cash prize and other gaming related prizes such as Respawn Gaming Chairs will be available for tournament entrants to win. Competitors must be at least 13 years old to enter. Fortnite will be run on a PC, and it is recommended that you bring your own controller. Be on the lookout for specific details and additional information on www.thebloom.com as the event date comes around! Registration is $25.00 per player.
 
Spectators are encouraged to view the competition either inside the Esports Arena (25 spectators max) or at the Shenandoah University Business School located adjacent to the Esports Arena (250 spectators max.)  Viewing tickets are only $5.  Visit www.thebloom.com to register to participate or purchase viewing tickets.

​Navy Federal Credit Union Veterans Dinner Show (New Event)
Come join us at “The Bloom” for a unique experience as we celebrate our veterans at the Navy Federal Credit Union Veterans Dinner Show, presented by Omps Funeral Home & Cremation Center at 5:00 pm on Tuesday evening, April 26 at Millwood Station Events Center. Cocktail hour will feature our local Veteran Service Organizations where you can meet Veterans, learn about who they are and what they do! Dinner will open with a missing man ceremony, remembering those who are no longer with us and posting of the colors.  Enjoy a dinner show with the Pin-Ups on Tour bringing back the nostalgia of the 40’s and 50’s Salute to the Troops inspired show!  You may even get a chance to snap a picture with one of our period dress folks and Uncle Sam! You will also see military memorabilia of past and present.  So, don your best vintage dinner dress and come show support for our brave soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, and guardians! 
 
PIN-UPS ON TOUR is a good time for a great cause. From the moment guests enter the event, they will be treated to something special. The PIN-UPS ON TOUR takes great pride in recreating the magic of the Hollywood Canteen that operated during the 1940's as a club offering dancing, drinks and entertainment for service members, usually on their way overseas. The evening will feature dancing showgirls, comedy, variety acts, soulful lounge singers, vintage candy girls and more than a few surprises! With entertainment & atmosphere around every turn, guests will feel like they stepped into another era.
 
Tickets are $50.00.

​The Willows at Meadow Branch Young at Heart Dance
The Willows at Meadow Branch Young at Heart Luncheon and Dance will spring to life at 11 a.m. on Thursday, April 28th at Millwood Station Event Center. Music provided by The Nitehawks Swing Band, to delight dancers and listeners alike as we spend an afternoon with old and new friends and dance away the day.
 
A highlight of event festivities includes a visit by the Queen XCV-designate and her court as she begins her whirlwind weekend.
​
The Willows at Meadow Branch Young at Heart Luncheon is truly a wonderful way to kick off your Apple Blossom weekend. We hope to see you there.  Tickets are $35.00.

​The Village at Orchard Ridge Queen’s Dinner
The Village at Orchard Ridge Queen's Dinner, presented by F&M Bank has been held for more than four decades and ushers in the celebration of the 95th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® as Queen Shenandoah XCV-designate is presented. The Queen-designate and her court will enter through an arch of sabers held by cadets from Randolph-Macon Academy and a trumpeter’s fanfare.  The evening is filled with tradition and festivities, including a delicious catered meal, and gifts and greetings from special dignitaries throughout the community.
 
The Queen’s Dinner will take place at Millwood Station Event Center on Thursday evening, April 28, 2022.  Cocktail hour starts at 5:00 pm and dinner is at 6:00 pm.  Tickets are $60.00.
​
The dinner is hosted by the civic clubs of the Winchester area.

​Old Town Midway
The Old Town Midway continues to evolve into a festive and entertaining destination.  The Midway features family friendly games including water balloon races, duck ponds, fishing games, mini basketball, and others many of which are prize every-time entertainment. A family-oriented Kids Zone featuring moon bounces, rock wall, face painting, and bungee jumping.
​
Food vendors from all over the East Coast serve traditional fair food as well as novelty and international cuisine. The live entertainment makes the atmosphere electric with local bands that have great followings.
 
Grab a Funnel Cake, Cotton Candy, or a corn dog and enjoy the fun atmosphere! 
 
The Old Town Midway is open on Friday, April 29 and Saturday, April 30 from 10:00 am to 11:00 pm each day.

​Ladies’ Horticultural Luncheon
The Ladies’ Horticultural Luncheon, presented by Spring Arbor Senior Living began as an unofficial Festival event and informal luncheon in a private home. Now it is sponsored by the Women’s Auxiliary of the Virginia State Horticultural Society and recognized as an official event of the Festival. The luncheon has grown from a small gathering to a springtime celebration enjoyed by hundreds of people. It has always been one of the most elegant activities of the Festival.
 
A delicious lunch, an outstanding keynote speaker, wonderful door prizes, and table favors contribute to a time of food, fun, and fellowship. In the past, we have been entertained and inspired by authors, a finalist from Project Runway, and Winchester’s very own Lauryn Ricketts, a DC network meteorologist. Proceeds from this event provide scholarships for Virginia Tech horticultural students.
 
Margo Oxidine will be the featured speaker at the Ladies’ Horticultural Luncheon.   Margo writes columns for two newspapers and is a featured writer in the Shenandoah Valley Electric Cooperative Living magazine, seen throughout Virginia.
 
The Ladies’ Horticultural Luncheon will take place at 10:30 am on Friday, April 29, 2022 at Millwood Station Event Center.  Tickets are $35.00.  Please call the Festival office at (540) 662-3863 for ticket information.

​Coronation of Queen Shenandoah
 
The Coronation of Queen Shenandoah, presented by Morgan Orthodontics, is one of the oldest and most notable traditions of the Apple Blossom Festival. Many Winchester residents recall the magnificent pageants produced for so many years by the late Dr. Garland R. Quarles. Pageants were held on the steps of John Handley High School where children from all of the schools in Winchester performed for the Queen and her Court.
 
Audiences will now enjoy a new Coronation Ceremony written and directed by Elaine Aikens.  This year for the very first time, the children will participate in speaking parts for the Coronation of the Queen.  The Narrator is Dr. Paul Ulich and the prelate is Reverend Mathew Borbor.
 
​The traditional Royal Command Performance is presented by The Handley Singers to honor the Queen.
 
The Coronation takes place at John Handley High School on Friday, April 29, 2022 at 1:30 pm.  Tickets are $20.00.

​American Woodmark Fireworks Show & TREX Music Fest
Fireworks and music will resonate through the streets of Winchester on Friday evening, April 29 at dusk immediately following the Firefighters’ Parade.  Family and friends by the thousands will fill the streets and gather on the campus of John Handley High School for the TREX Music Fest and American Woodmark Fireworks show.  Noted as the areas grandest fireworks show, the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival is pleased to partner with TREX and American Woodmark to bring back a free fireworks and music show to our springtime celebration. 

Anthony’s Pizza Senseny Road Bloomin’ Sunday
How can you cap off the most amazing springtime festival around? End your Apple Blossom by visiting the Anthony’s Pizza – Senseny Road Bloomin’ Sunday on May 1, 2022, from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm at the Frederick County Fairgrounds and Stonewall District Ruritans Club Grounds.
 
This event has evolved and changed over the years to become what it is today.  Maintaining some of the history and adding new activities, it is sure to entertain the entire family.  There will be plenty of room for everyone to enjoy all that we have to offer including:
 

• The Artisan and Craft Show is part of Bloomin' Sunday and attracts participants from all over with many different products being offered.   This is an anticipated event by many and the attendance is always high.
• New Horizon’s Kids’ Zone Renaissance themed are is for the whole family with fun activities for everyone. The events include pony rides, petting zoo, puppet shows, apple pie eating contests, wildlife shows, magical acts, children's talent show, and much more! Princes and princesses will meet the royalty of Ravenwood Faire!
• Live music by the Robbie Limon Band
• Midway area with food and games 
• Open Auto Show and Motorcycle show featuring all makes, models and years of vehicles are welcome.  Members of the Hoppers Car Club and Harley Owners Group will be on hand for registration from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m.  The show will last until 3 p.m. at which time awards will be given.  There will be 25 Top awards and one Best-in-Show award.  There are no separate classes, but judges will make sure that all entries will be represented.   Come and enjoy the great variety of vehicles.

 
Tickets are $10.00 for adults and $5.00 for children 4-10.  Children under 4 years old are FREE.

​Firefighters’ Parade
​For 88 years, members of the Winchester and Frederick County firefighters have coordinated the annual Firefighters’ Parade through the streets of downtown Winchester. In 2022, the Firefighters’ Parade will step off at 5:30 p.m. on Friday evening, April 29th.
 
Come downtown to the Midway for carnival food, games and entertainment and then head over to the parade route to see the Antique Firetruck's start with the pre-parade, some trucks date back to the early 1920's!   Our local Fire Companies are in the First Division to show off their equipment.  There are celebrities, Miss Honorary Fire Company winners, bands and special units.   There are 4 Divisions with Fire and Rescue Equipment from all over the Mid-Atlantic Region. The final division is the Siren Division where the Fire Companies sound their horns.  This is a wonderful community event, where friends and families gather to Thank our first responders.
 
The first Torchlight and Mummers’ Parade in 1929 stepped off at 8 p.m. with each of the Winchester fire departments participating. Each firefighter carried a flaming torch. No parade was held from 1942 to 1945 during the war and 2020 and 2021 due to the COVID 19 pandemic. From this humble beginning, it is now the largest and one of the oldest annual firefighters’ parades in the world.

glofiber Grand Feature Parade
Since 1941 the Winchester Host Lions Club has coordinated the glofiber Grand Feature Parade through the historic streets in downtown Winchester.  In 2022, the Grand Feature Parade will step off at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday afternoon, April 30th and will include five parade divisions. From start to finish the parade is nearly 4 hours long!
 
The 195+ unit parade has special and equestrian units, floats, and marching bands. The glofiber Grand Feature Parade features bands like the Quantico Marine Band, Steelers Drumline, Community and High School bands from the Mid-Atlantic Region.  The route winds for 1.5 miles around the historic downtown area and passes by the iconic John Handley High School campus. 
 
After two years of no parades due to the COVID pandemic, we are pleased to announce that a special 5th “Hero’s” Division has been added to the glofiber Grand Feature Parade lineup in 2022.  Join us as we celebrate and honor the hero’s in our community who helped us get through the pandemic.

Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® President, Tommy Price, is very pleased to announce that Mia Jenelle Dorsett has accepted the role of Queen Shenandoah XCV-Designate for the 2022 Festival.  Mia is the youngest daughter of Janet and Tony Dorsett.  She is an eighteen-year-old first-year student at Texas Christian University in Fort Worth, Texas. Although she is part of an athletic family, Mia has found her passion in the arts. Musical theatre is her first love, and she is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre at TCU. She is the recipient of a four-year TCU Chancellor’s Scholarship, the most prestigious scholarship awarded at TCU.
 
Mia's stage debut began at the age of 10, and she has been part of over 20 productions to this date.  Mia has a very strong work ethic and strives to always do her best in all things.  In high school, she was recognized as a Duke University TIP scholar and was inducted into both junior and senior National Honor Societies and served as secretary for the junior group. Mia was a member of her high school’s honor choir and was chosen as an TPSMEA All State musician.  During her freshman year of high school, she served in student government as a class representative. Mia is also a former member of the International Thespian Society Troupe 6605 and has twice performed at ITS nationals in Lincoln, Nebraska. She continues to strengthen her work ethic in college by being involved in many different organizations at TCU. Just in her first year, Mia has been a part of Leaders for Life, Theatre TCU Black Excellence, Frog Aides, and is a proud member of her sorority, Kappa Alpha Theta.
 
Since the age of 6, Mia has spent a week during the summer at Sky Ranch Christian camp in Van, Texas. Her last year of camp, she spent two weeks in Colorado at their Sigma camp, which provides a deeper focus on faith and beliefs. She has been honored to sing the national anthem at their annual fundraising gala several times. Mia has a true servant's heart and desires to be the hands and feet of Jesus. She has been blessed to serve as the 2022 service director for her sorority and hopes to continue finding ways to serve while in school. Before college, in the midst of all of her preparations for the next level of theatre, Mia found the time to travel to share the love of Christ through mission trips to orphanages in Chiapas, Mexico and the Dominican Republic and villages in Sri Lanka. She also spent eight days traveling with her choir's student ministry group in and around London, England performing and spreading the Gospel.
 
Mia is so grateful to be chosen as the next Queen and to follow in the steps of her sister, Jazmyn Dorsett, Queen Shenandoah LXXXV.  She is delighted to be a part of such an incredible tradition and looks forward to a great weekend in the Shenandoah Valley. The Dorsett family, including Tony and Janet, will accompany Mia during the 2022 Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival ®.  Mia was designated to be Queen in 2020 but did not reign due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 
 
Queen Shenandoah XCV will be attending the The Village at Orchard Ridge Queen’s Dinner at 5 p.m. on April 28, at Millwood Station.  Her Coronation will be held at John Handley High School at 1:30 p.m. on Friday, April 29.  Mia will make appearances at various Festival events throughout the weekend, including the Firefighters’ Parade on Friday, April 29 at 5:30 p.m. and the glofiber Grand Feature Parade on Saturday, April 30 at 1:30 p.m.  Ticketing and Festival information are available at www.thebloom.com. 

Four young women from the Winchester area have been selected to serve as Maids in the Court of Queen Shenandoah XCV during the 95th Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival, April 28 through May I, 2022. The Maids are Elia Maria Norton, Yeakley Eden Pullen, Margaret Wyndham Smith, and Sarah Katherine Smith.

​Elia Norton is the granddaughter of B.J. Dove of Winchester, VA. She is the great granddaughter of Polly Manuel of Winchester and the late Eddie Manuel. Elia is a sophomore at Lord Fairfax Community College majoring in early childhood education. She is a member of Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, where she volunteers on many committees. Elia has been an active member in the Girl Scout Organization for I3 years and has now received a lifetime membership. Elia is a 2019 graduate of John Handley High School. She was a member of the Handley Color Guard, participated with Girls on the Run as a Jr. Coach, running buddy, and runner. She also participated in Winchester Public School's system wide musicals for 7 years.
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Elia has volunteered with the Kids Club of the Northern Shenandoah Valley, Watts, and the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® on the Tent/Event, Bluegrass, and Bloomers committees.

​Yeakley Pullen is the daughter of Crystal and Adrian Pullen of Winchester. She is the granddaughter of Mary Ann Pullen and Pressley Pullen, Jr., of Winchester, and the late Barbara Zydelis and Robert Zydelis. Yeakley is a junior at The University of Alabama majoring in communicative disorders with a minor in human development. She is a member of Delta Zeta sorority where she served as a Diamond Leader and was appointed as a Sigma Rho Chi through the University of Alabama Panhellenic Association where she guided and counseled potential new members during the largest sorority recruitment in the nation. She is a weekly mentor with Al's Pals, a mentoring program for at-risk youth in Tuscaloosa, AL, a volunteer with the West Alabama Food Bank, and involved in Campus Outreach. Yeakley is a 2019 graduate of James Wood High School. She was a four year varsity Soccer letter recipient, three year varsity Volleyball letter recipient, where she also served as a captain her senior year, and named First Team All-Area Libero during her junior and senior years. Additionally, she was a member of the National Honor Society, Varsity Club, and Key Club. Yeakley also served as an Apple Pie Ridge Elementary mentor.

​Margaret Smith is the daughter of Katherine and Randall Smith of Henrico, VA. She is the granddaughter of Sandra and Frank Armstrong of Winchester, Patricia Smith of Richmond, VA, and the late Steve Smith. Margaret attends John Tyler Community College majoring in early childhood education. Margaret is a 2017 graduate of Douglas Southall Freeman High School.
She was a three year varsity Swim letter recipient, member of the National Beta Club, and a seven year member of The Village Dance Studio Performing Company. Margaret has worked in childcare full-time for the past 4 years and enjoys photography as a hobby. Margaret's mother, Katherine Armstrong Smith, was a Little Maid in the court of Queen Shenandoah XLIV, Miss Juliana Shepard and a Maid of Honor to Queen Shenandoah LVI, Miss Dana Lee Connors. Her maternal grandparents, Sandra and Frank Armstrong, were Festival Presidents from 1981 to 1982 and 1968 to 1969, respectively.

​Sarah Smith is the daughter of Katherine and Randall Smith of Henrico. She is the granddaughter of Sandra and Frank Armstrong of Winchester, Patricia Smith of Richmond, and the late Steve Smith. Sarah is a junior at the University of Virginia majoring in kinesiology with a Spanish minor. She is a member of the Virginia Alpine Ski and Snowboard Team. Sarah graduated from Glen Allen High School in 2019. She was a four year varsity Gymnastics letter recipient and a two year varsity Tennis letter recipient. Additionally, she was a member of the National Honor Society, Art Honor Society, Math Honor Society, and Spanish Honor Society. Sarah's mother, Katherine Armstrong Smith, was a Little Maid in the court of Queen Shenandoah XLIV, Miss Juliana Shepard and a Maid of Honor to Queen Shenandoah LVI, Miss Dana Lee Connors. Her maternal grandparents, Sandra and Frank Armstrong, were Festival Presidents from 1981 to 1982 and 1968 to 1969, respectively.

​The Maids will participate in the Coronation Ceremony of Queen Shenandoah XCV at John Handley High School and will ride on the Queen's float in the Grand Feature Parade.

​The selection of Princesses to serve in the Court of Queen Shenandoah XCIII for the 2020 Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival® has been announced by festival officials. The princesses include Catherine Cather Burton, Sarah Lucille Dalton, Sarah Elson, Catherine Grace Keim, and Lauren Ashleigh Taylor.

​Sarah Dalton is the daughter of Julie and Keith Dalton of Bluemont, VA. She is the granddaughter of Elizabeth and William Minor of Winchester, James “Wayne” Dalton of Middletown, VA, and the late Julia Dalton. She is a first year student at the University of Virginia majoring in nursing. She is a member of Green Ground, Student Nurse Association of Virginia (SNAV), Madison House, and Synapse. Sarah is a 2019 graduate of Clarke County High School. She was a member of the National Honor Society, National Technical Honor Society, and Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA).  She was a member of the track team, the debate team, and participated in Distributive Education Clubs of America (DECA) throughout high school, serving as Vice-President her junior and senior years.  Sarah is currently a CNA at the Winchester Medical Center.

​Sarah Elson is the daughter of Joanna and Robert Elson of Winchester. She is the granddaughter of Betty Jo and Myron Dickerson of Winchester and the late Hildegarde Gieseler and Berton Elson. She is a sophomore at Virginia Commonwealth University majoring in mass communications with a concentration in digital journalism. She is a contributing writer for “The Commonwealth Times” and “Hercampus” at VCU. Her article in “The Commonwealth Times” won the Associated College Press (ACP) best of show award. Sarah is a 2018 graduate of John Handley High School. She was a miscellanea editor, yearbook co-editor, and published an article in the Winchester Star about prom fashion in 2018.  Sarah’s mother served as a Princess in the Court of Queen Shenandoah LVI, Dana Lee Connors.

​The Princesses will accompany Queen Shenandoah XCIII and her Court to all Festival functions throughout the 93rd Festival scheduled for April 24 to May 3, 2020. They will participate in the Coronation Ceremony to be held on Friday, May 1, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. at John Handley High School. They will ride in the Royal Float in the Grand Feature Parade scheduled to begin at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, May 2, 2020.