RESERVE — The fun starts at 7 p.m. today and there is still plenty of time to join in as our community comes together to celebrate the St. John Parish Sugar Queen Pageant at St. Peter Catholic School in Reserve.

This year’s queen will be the 70th, as eight contestants participate in the “The Greatest Show – How Sweet It has Been!” themed event.

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

Those competing in the 2018 Miss St. John Sugar category include Riley Edwards, daughter of Richard and Kelly Edwards; Sadie Kelly, daughter of Patrick and the late Lori Kelly; Janet Nelson, daughter of Stephen and Staci Nelson; and Ali Vicknair, daughter of Wayne and Jenni Vicknair.

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

Those competing in the St. John Sugar Teen category include Lexi Cashio, daughter of Ryan Cashio and Angie Lasaicherre; Haley Louque, daughter of Ricky and Kim Louque; Emma Palermo, daughter of Gino and Tricia Palermo; and Madison Tassin, daughter of Troy and Robin Tassin.

The 2017 Miss St. John Parish Sugar Queen is Alexandra Martin. Jenna Beber is the 2017 Teen Queen.

The St. John Sugar Queen is celebrating 70 years of pageantry. This will be a celebration you don’t want to miss.

Tickets will be on sale in the lobby of St. Peter School today, beginning at 6 p.m. The public is welcome.