Ripon’s Almond Blossom royal court cruises Main Street after pandemic cancels annual parade

The city that calls itself the Almond Capital of the World had to cancel their Almond Blossom festival that happens this time of year. But COVID-19 restrictions didn't stop the Almond Blossom Queen and her court from taking a cruise down Ripon’s Main Street. It’s the same route the canceled parade would have taken for the 59th year. “It’s an exciting day for our community and it's a beautiful day to be out and about and wave at some beautiful princesses,” said Kelly Donahue, Presidents of the Ripon Chamber of Commerce. ''I was excited because I’ve grown up in Ripon and I’ve loved seeing all the princesses and watching the parade every year…so I’m excited that we got to do something like this,” said Almond Blossom Queen Naomi Wilbur. The festival was held last year just before restrictions took place. People in town hope the fun events of Ripon’s Annual Almond Blossom Festival will be back next year.