TYLER, Texas — Thursday night was full of a night of announcements for the 91st Texas Rose Festival. At this year's Winter Gala, organizers revealed the new theme and court for 2024.
The next Texas Rose Queen is 20-year-old Baylor University student Frances Faulconer who graduated from Tyler Legacy High School.
"This moment is a realization of a long held dream and I'm truly privileged to be part of this beloved tradition," Faulconer said. "I'm really excited to give back to this community and volunteer and really just be the ambassador of Tyler."
The festival, which began in 1933, celebrates the rose industry of Tyler and its impact with royalty, a coronation, luncheons and a parade.
Faulconer isn’t new to the tradition as back in 2015 she was a royal attendant. She said she’s excited to create friendships with her court.
"I grew up with most (of these) ladies-in-waiting so I got to rekindle some friendships," Faulconer said. "And also getting to meet all the new duchesses from out of town and other states."
Texas Rose Festival President Bill Evans said he chose Faulconer to represent Tyler this year due to her family's commitment to the city.
"This year's queen that I chose was based on their family," Evans said. "Lots of community volunteers. Their family has done lots of philanthropy that they've done in the East Texas area and have given back so much."
Festival Vice President Michael Young revealed this year’s theme to be Fanfare Festivals. Young said this is a tribute to how festivals have evolved across the world throughout history.
Evans said after this gala that there is so much more to come throughout the year. The next event will be Rose Sunday in the spring which kicks off the rose season.
"Then in July, we will have summer practice where all of the kids come in and our ladies-in-waiting, our duchess, our escorts, they come and we do about a two or three day practice, where they prepare and get ready for coronation and get ready for the festival in the fall," Faulconer said.
Faulconer added she's looking forward not only to the pageantry and events but the community atmosphere of the festival.
"I am excited for all the dresses and festivities. But I'm excited about what Texas Rose Festival does, bringing the community together - bringing all the volunteer work and just representing Tyler," Faulconer said.