Little Royals contest open for 2026 Cherry Festival; Nominations accepted through Monday, April 6

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Apr 5

Written By Columbia Community Connection

The Dalles, Ore., April 5, 2026 — The Dalles Area Chamber of Commerce has opened nominations for the 2026 Little Royals Contest, a longstanding part of the Northwest Cherry Festival, according to a press release from the Chamber.

The contest, presented in partnership with Rivermark Community Credit Union, invites the community to nominate children ages 3 to 7 for the titles of Little Miss Royal Ann and Little Mister Royal Andy as part of this year’s festival theme, “The Great Cherry Adventure.”

Nominations are open through noon April 6. Families can apply online at www.thedalleschamber.com.

Community voting will take place April 8 through April 21, both online and in person at Rivermark Community Credit Union. Voting is limited to one vote per person, per day, for one boy and one girl.

Winners will be notified April 22 and introduced publicly during the Cherry Festival Royalty Coronation Breakfast on April 25 at the Mid Columbia Senior Center.

According to the Chamber, each winner will receive a gift from Rivermark Community Credit Union, a gift certificate to Fred Meyer, a day pass to the Rainier Amusements Carnival and a place of honor in the Cherry Festival Parade.

“The Little Royals Contest is such a fun and special way for families to be part of Cherry Festival and create lasting memories,” said Lisa Farquharson, president and CEO of The Dalles Area Chamber of Commerce, in the release. “It’s one of those traditions that brings our community together and adds a little extra magic to the Northwest Cherry Festival.”