TYLER COUNTY – Plans are currently underway for the 83rd annual Tyler County Dogwood Festival as volunteers begin preparing for our community’s most treasured springtime traditions. With the season quickly approaching, festival organizers are excited to extend an invitation to senior girls from surrounding communities to take part in this year’s celebration as visiting duchesses.
Serving as a duchess offers young women the opportunity to represent their hometowns while becoming part of the Dogwood Festival’s royal court. The festival committee also encourages Tyler County residents to share this information with granddaughters, nieces, cousins, or friends from other cities who may be interested in participating.
Visiting duchesses enjoy a memorable experience filled with tradition, fellowship, and fun. Throughout the festival weekend, participants will take part in a variety of activities, meet new friends, and become immersed in the longstanding customs that make the Dogwood Festival so special.
Visiting duchesses will participate in festival events from April 2 through April 4, 2026. Each duchess must be a current high school senior and have a high school student serve as her escort. A local escort may be provided if needed.
Those interested in participating should contact festival organizers as soon as possible, as space is limited to 24 visiting duchesses. For more information, or to express interest, please email Candace Dagle at candace_spivey@hotmail.com. Registration packets are available online at www.tylercountydogwoodfestival.org under the “Forms” section. The deadline to register is February 23, 2026.
