Laurel Fest organizers have decided that the 2009 edition of the event, on May 8-9, will include a "Little MIss Laurel Fest" pageant.

"We had a couple of people tell us they would like to see a pageant at Laurel Fest over the past few years," said Connie Coleman, Laurel Fest executive board member in charge of vendors.

"We feel like we have now established a good festival, with things really working, and we hope we can keep adding a little each year to keep people coming back to see what's next," Coleman added.

What's next in 2009 is a pageant which will be open to girls from three to 12 years of age.

Applicants will be divided into three competitive groups. Those aged three to six years will compete in the Little Miss Laurel Fest division, while young ladies aged seven to nine will compete in the Junior Miss Laurel Fest classification. The oldest competitors, aged 10-12, will vie for the "Miss Laurel Fest" crown.

"We're hoping to have at least 30 to 50 kids," said Coleman, adding that invitations have been extended to several judges to serve on the panel.

A winner will be crowned and awarded a tiara in each category. Second place finishers will receive tiaras, as well.

Winners may also be invited to ride in the Laurinburg Christmas parade, according to Coleman, if such an agreement with the parade can be arranged.

If this year's pageant goes as planned, the Laurel Fest may expand to include a Little Mister Laurel Fest competition, Coleman said.

"We are hoping that the kids will get excited about it and we're excited to involve more people in the festival itself."

Coleman and Laurel Fest planners want to be sure that parents of pageant contestants do not break the bank trying to help their child win.

"Fancy, frilly outfits" are to be avoided, Coleman said, while a "nice, Sunday outfit or play clothing" is the option being encouraged.

"The idea is not for you to spend a lot of money but for you to have fun," said Coleman of the pageant's goal.

Coleman and Nancy Shelley of Laurel Hill are taking the lead, organizing the pageant.

Entries will be accepted up until the day before the festival, however, the entry fee will increase from $10 to $15 after May 1.

Those interested in applying are invited to call 462-3140 for more information or stop by the Charlie Fipps Agency in Laurel Hill, located at 9311 Morgan Street.