The fun starts at 7 p.m. today as our community comes together to celebrate the St. John Parish Sugar Queen Pageant at St. John Theatre in Reserve.

This year’s queen will be the 69th, as a dozen contestants participate in the “Big Apple, NYC”-themed event.

The Sugar Pageant helps promote a great deal of pride in St. John the Baptist Parish, organizers said, and local Queens have always been outstanding ambassadors showcasing community spirit in statewide competition, regional festivals and community events.

Those competing in the Miss category include Carley Hoover, daughter of Jeremy and Candace Hoover; Kaitlyn Landry, daughter of Brent and Kim Landry; Alexandra Martin, daughter of Russell and Arlene Martin; and Jessica Stanford, daughter of Charles and Terrilyn Sanford.

The ladies compete in an interview portion this morning and then enjoy an introduction and evening wear competition tonight on stage.

Those competing in the Teen category include Sheridan Baughman, daughter of Tracy and Susan Baughman; Jenna Beber, daughter of Jason and Shanna Beber; Emily Duhe, daughter of Earl and Angie Duhe; Trinity Hill, daughter of Norman and Gail Hill; Emma Palermo, daughter of Gino and Tricia Palermo; Alicia Perret, daughter of Jonathan and Aimee Perret; Patience Pray, daughter of Charles and Brandy Pray; and Tabitha Tregre, daughter of Kirt and Tricia Tregre.

The public is welcome to join the parish’s 68th St. John Parish Sugar Queen, Heather Roussel, and Teen Queen Ali Vicknair in a sweet experience as they bid their farewells and crown the new pageant queens.

Tickets are $12 and are available at the door.