Named for the Goddess of Orchards

Pomona — the uniquely Roman goddess of fruit trees and orchards — lends her name to the festival’s queen. From the Latin pomum, “orchard fruit,” Pomona watches over and protects fruit trees and cares for their cultivation. Since 1979, each festival queen has carried her name.

Each year, a new court of maids, princesses, and junior attendants represents the festival across West Virginia — from school visits to statewide festivals — culminating in the Coronation, when the West Virginia Commissioner of Agriculture crowns the new Queen Pomona.

Queen Pomona XLVII — 2026

The 2026 court has been selected, and Queen Pomona XLVII will be crowned Friday, October 16, 2026 at the Coronation at Airborne Church — free and open to the public. Follow the gallery and social media for court announcements and appearances.

Queen Pomona XLVI — 2025: Syrah George

Syrah Armoni Makena George of Martinsburg, a senior honor student and Senior Class President at Martinsburg High School, was crowned Queen Pomona XLVI at the 2025 festival. A National Honor Society Vice President and co-captain of the award-winning Velocity Dance Team, Syrah grew up watching the parade in awe of the princesses and served as a Junior Maiden before earning the crown. She plans to study Elementary Education at Shepherd University.

The line of queens

Forty-six queens have worn the crown since 1979. We’re building the full archive — if you or a family member served on a past court, the festival would love your photos and memories at treasurer@msahf.com.

• 2025 — Queen Pomona XLVI: Syrah George, Martinsburg
• 2026 — Queen Pomona XLVII: crowned October 16, 2026
• 1979–2024 — archive in progress: share your court photos and names!