The Nacogdoches Heritage Festival is a proud tradition in our community, one that allows us to share our heritage with friends and family from near and far.  This is the time for our youth to connect to the history of our beloved community.  The Festival has been the constant focal point to gather our young people together from high schools all over the county and beyond.  Every year, participants look on their memories made as a favorite part of their high school experience and preparing for the next phase of their life journey.  The Festival also honors local leaders who have contributed to the community and then culminates with the Coronation at Turner Auditorium on the campus of Stephen F. Austin State University.  Each Princess, Duchess and her Escort are presented to the audience during this celebration of our heritage.  A Royal Court, consisting of a Queen, Princess in waiting, Lady in waiting, Grand Duchess and Duke of Escorts, is selected from the participating young people.

We invite all local high school junior girls to apply to join the Court as a NHF Princess.  We invite all local high school junior or senior boys to apply to join the Court as a NHF Escort.  Junior or senior girls outside of Nacogdoches County are invited to be a Duchess of the Court and represent their hometown and state.