Among the most anticipated events each year at the Pumpkin Show is the crowning of the festival queen. Twelve candidates from area high schools have the opportunity to earn the title, but only three will leave the stage as members of Circleville's Miss Pumpkin Show court.

Beginning at 8 p.m. Wednesday, 2001 Queen Kacy Walton and her court, first attendant Sara McKlaskey and second attendant Tahnee VanSickle, will savor their last ride as festival representatives. Following the parade and judging, the trio will crown the new queen and her court. The newly selected Miss Pumpkin Show court will make their official debut in the 3 p.m. parade Thursday as they join the new Little Miss Pumpkin Show and her attendants.

Competing for the chance to represent the 2002 Pumpkin Show at festivals throughout the state are a junior and senior representative chosen by their classmates from the following six schools: Amanda-Clearcreek, Circleville, Logan Elm, Teays Valley, Westfall and Zane Trace.

For the fifth year, the contest is sponsored by Circleville Sunrise Rotary.

Along with a brief biography and information about plans after high school, The Herald asked candidates to answer two questions: 'If you could invite anyone to the Pumpkin Show, who would it be and why?' and 'Describe your most memorable Pumpkin Show experience.'