CENTRE HALL — The lights of the grandstand glowed Wednesday, Aug. 13, as Grace Novosel walked across the stage to be crowned the 2025 Centre County Grange Fair Queen. For Novosel, the honor was more than a sash and a tiara. It was the continuation of a tradition more than 150 years strong at one of the state’s most iconic gatherings.
Novosel, the daughter of Michael and Billie Jo Novosel, will begin her senior year at Bellefonte Area High School this fall. She was one of two contestants vying for the title, representing her community and her school as she delivered a speech and answered questions before the panel of judges.
As the crowd cheered, Novosel was crowned by last year’s queen, Kryslynn Ronk, who returned to the stage for the honors. The moment marked the official start of a new reign, one that will see Novosel serve as an ambassador for the Grange Fair and its mission of community, agriculture and tradition.
Serving alongside her will be alternate AnneLea Barger, a graduate of Penns Valley Area High School and the daughter of Todd and Crystal Barger. As alternate, Barger will also have the opportunity to participate in parades, appearances and other community events where the Grange Fair is represented.
The Grange Fair Queen program, held each August during the fair’s opening ceremonies, highlights not just public speaking and poise, but also knowledge of agriculture, fair history and community involvement. Organizers say the competition is designed to celebrate young women who embody the values of service and leadership while carrying forward the traditions of Centre County.
Wednesday’s ceremony also included another special recognition. U.S. Congressman Glenn “GT” Thompson, who represents Pennsylvania’s 15th District, was named the 2025 Friend of the Fair. The honor is given annually to someone who has shown exceptional support for the fair and its role in Centre County.
Thompson, a longtime advocate for agriculture and rural communities, has been a familiar face at the Grange Fair for years. Organizers credited his ongoing support for agricultural programs and local traditions in naming him this year’s recipient.
The 151st Grange Fair continues through the weekend, carrying forward its blend of agriculture, entertainment and community connection.
