Calling all young ladies: North Carolina Sunflower Festival organizers are seeking participants for the second-annual Sunflower Festival Scholarship Pageant.

This year’s pageant is scheduled for June 17 at 6 p.m. at the Turnage Theatre, a few days before the festival begins June 23 at Raised in a Barn Farm in Chocowinity. Age divisions include: Seedling (birth to 3 years old); Tiny Miss (4-6 years old); Little Miss (7-10 years old); Teen Miss (11-14 years old); Miss: (15-18 years old).

Organizer Elizabeth Harris said this year’s pageant is expanding and will welcome participants from all counties in the state. Last year’s pageant saw participants from Beaufort, Hyde and Craven counties.

“We are excited to be able to extend it to all areas. The pageant is very exciting and features local entertainers in music, dancing and vocalist(s),” Harris said. “The goal of pageants is to teach these young girls, poise, self-confidence and to give them an opportunity to showcase their talents.”

Girls will compete in three main categories, including evening wear, casual sunflower-themed wear and talent (optional). Awards will also be presented to the most photogenic, best model, best casual wear and more, according to Harris.

The Seedling division will not be judged, and all girls will receive a participation trophy. Tiny and Little Miss winners will be rewarded a $50 prize, and Teen Miss will receive $100. The winner of the Miss category will be awarded a $1,000 scholarship, to be given once her yearlong reign is completed.

“During their reign, winners are required to complete multiple community service projects, attend area events and parades and many … other events that give them an opportunity to be a spokesperson for our state,” Harris said.

A total of 19 girls competed in last year’s inaugural event, and Harris said organizers are hoping to see more sign up this year.

The Turnage Theatre is located at 150 W. Main St., Washington. Tickets for the pageant are $5. For more information, email emharris0919@yahoo.com, or visit www.ncsunflowerfestival.com.