The Coronation

By In Event, Photos, Rhody Days

Camden Linton was crowned King of the Coast, and Sylvia Hand was coronated Queen Rhododendra at the Rhododendron Festival Coronation on May 9, 2026, at the Florence Events Center, the kickoff of the 119th Rhody Days festival in Florence.

Written and photographed by Will Yurman

The 119th Rhody Days festival got off to a royal start with the crowning of this year’s King of the Coast and Queen Rhododendra at the Rhododendron Festival Coronation Saturday evening, May 9 at the Florence Events Center.

The evening included a talent competition from the senior court of five princes and five princesses, as well as singing and dancing from both the senior and junior courts. From backstage nerves to onstage grace, the evening ended with the coronation of Camden Linton as King of the Coast and Sylvia Hand as Queen Rhododendron.

Sylvia Hand is congratulated by Kevin Gaspar Santos as she is named Queen Rhododendra.
Sylvia Hand was named Queen of the 2026 Rhododendron Court.

1 Comment
  1. Annette Lein May 10, 2026

    Sweet Will:)

    Reply

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