Williamson County Fair seeks pageant contestants

MARION - The oldest continuously running fair in Illinois is gearing up for another year, starting with a call for pageant contestants.

This year marks the 163rd anniversary of the Williamson County Fair, established in 1856. Along with the carnival rides, games, cotton candy, and grandstand shows, the fair offers area young ladies an opportunity to earn scholarships while they spend a year representing their community as a "fair queen."

"I have loved every minute of my reign as Miss Williamson County Fair," said Joelle Shelton, the 2018 Miss Williamson County Fair. "Being able to go and meet so many new people and inspire younger girls to be the best they can be is a dream job."

Pageant director Tyra Hill hopes to fill this year's stage with a large group of area contestants looking to represent the fair.

"I would like to invite the young ladies of Williamson County and surrounding counties who do not have a queen pageant to participate in our event," said Hill. "It will be an unforgettable experience."

There are three pageants at the fair. Little Miss Williamson County Fair, currently titled to Savannah Roth, is open to ages 5-7. There is a $50 entry fee.

Girls ages 10-12 are eligible to compete for the title of Junior Miss Williamson County Fair, currently held by Taylor Gregory, who said she hopes to compete for queen one day.

"I have enjoyed meeting other county fair queens," she said. "Queen Joelle and my Little Miss Savannah are my family now and I love creating memories with them."

There is a $75 entry fee.

Young ladies aged 16-21 are eligible to become Miss Williamson County Fair. Shelton said along with being her dream job, the title has given her a platform for community involvement.

"The crown is a perk, too," she said.

There is a $100 entry fee.

Hill said anyone interested in the pageants can visit the fair's Facebook page, the website located at www. williamsoncountyillinoisfair.com, or call her at (618) 925-1860.