Congratulations to the 2022 Festival of Lights Queen and her Court!
Magge Cowen is the new Festival of Lights Queen 2022, crowned at the conclusion of the 35th annual Festival of Lights Queen Pageant on Sunday, November 6.
Cowen is a senior at East Peoria Community High School and the daughter of Jennifer and Jason Cowen.
First runner-up is Jenessa Bowen, a senior at EPCHS and the daughter of Dana and Christina Garcia.
Second runner-up is Jexie Bolding, a college freshman and the daughter of Syndy Bolding.
Contestants had to be residents of East Peoria, students at East Peoria Community High School or alumni of EPCHS; single; and between the ages of 16 and 20. They were judged on poise, appearance, personality and a final question. Six women participated in the 2022 pageant.
Prizes and Queen's Duties
The queen will receive a $1,000 college scholarship and a package of prizes donated by local businesses. The first and second runners-up also receive scholarship funds and prizes.
The queen and her court will ride on a float in the 38th annual Parade of Lights Saturday, November 19, 2022. The queen will also reign over all festivities for the 2022 Festival of Lights, make appearances at community events in 2023 and crown the 2023 queen.