Festival of Lights Queen Pageant
Contestants take the stage presented by escorts and are evaluated on poise, appearance, personality, and interview responses. The crowned queen receives a scholarship and earns the honor of reigning over the seasonal community festivities, including riding on a float in the Parade of Lights. All participants receive gift bags provided by local businesses.
What to Expect
Annual pageant selecting the queen to reign over holiday festivities
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Pageant fans and the east peoria community
Vibe
Formal and festive
Energy Level
Low
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $100 contestant sponsor entry fee, due by October 9, 2026. – Get tickets
Tips & Advice
- Submit the contestant registration form and sponsor fee by October 9, 2026, to meet the stated deadline.
- Arrange an escort to present you at the pageant, as every contestant needs one.
- Attend the required informational meeting, photoshoot and dress fitting as well as pageant day.
- Ask about borrowing a dress from CloudNine Bridal Boutique if you need that option.
Special Events & Promotions
- The queen receives a scholarship.
- Each contestant receives a gift bag with gifts and prizes from community businesses.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to compete in the queen pageant?
Contestants must be unmarried, aged 16–20, and either East Peoria residents or East Peoria High School students or alumni.
What do contestants need to attend before pageant day?
Contestants must attend the informational meeting, photoshoot, dress fitting and pageant day.
How are contestants judged?
Judging considers poise, appearance, personality and answers to interview questions.
Does each contestant need an escort, and is a dress available?
Each contestant needs an escort to present them. Contestants may borrow a dress from CloudNine Bridal Boutique.
What do contestants receive, and what does the winner do?
Each contestant receives a gift bag from local businesses, and the queen receives a scholarship. The queen is expected to attend community festivities including the Parade of Lights.
More Christmas Events near Peoria
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