The Crucian Christmas Festival Princess and Duchess – the first festival royalty for the year – were selected Sunday in front of a standing room only, wildly cheering crowd. Nine-year-old Markeymah Cargile was crowned Festival Princess and 6-year-old Kayla Nesbitt was crowned Festival Duchess.

The competition was tight in the princess division with Princess Cargile, who also won Miss Intellect and best talent; first runner-up and best costume went to 9-year-old Helena Gonzales; second runner-up and Miss Photogenic was 8-year-old Makeda E. Eleonora; and Unissa Williams claimed both Miss Congeniality and Miss Popularity.

The new Festival Duchess, Kayla Nesbitt, led the younger, but just as poised and beautiful, duchess contestants. Five-year-old Jahilah Carrol captured the first runner up position as well as Miss Popularity, best gown, best costume and Miss Photogenic. Alayah Watly, 5, was second runner-up. Also competing were Sapphire Cruz and Markaisha Rhyner.

You can see some of the photos from the show on the Crucian Christmas Festival Face Book page. Also check out the Festival web page at http://www.stxfestival.com.