Candidate Program FAQ

  • How do I become a Red Wing Royal Ambassador candidate?

    The official Red Wing Royal Ambassador candidate application will be available online in May. You may also email the RWRA committee to request a paper application. The Red Wing Royal Ambassador committee hosts two informational candidate meetings in early spring that can help answer your questions. Parents are also welcome to attend these meetings.

    Applications are due (June 14th) and sponsor fees are due (June 28th). Candidate events begin June 19th. The Red Wing Royal Ambassador Candidacy lasts approximately 7 weeks.

  • What are the judges looking for?

    Judging is based on overall impression including poise, communication skills, community and school involvement, sincerity and a warm, friendly personality. We are looking for a role model and strong representative for our wonderful city, and who works well with the team of other Ambassadors.

    A panel of independent judges is selected to choose a team of three Ambassadors who they feel would be the right fit for the Ambassador role. Their decision is strictly of their own choosing, with no influence from the Red Wing Royal Ambassador Committee or current Ambassadors. Their selection is based on information provided in the candidate materials, like the platform paper, and as witnessed during all judged events.

  • Can I still be a candidate if I received a ticket for under-age drinking or for some other offense?

    As long as the offense occurred prior to becoming a Red Wing Royal Ambassador Candidate and prior to signing our contract, you may still participate in the program. You have a 'clean slate' when you become a candidate. Keep in mind though that if any infraction of the Law or rules of the Red Wing Royal Ambassador Organization occurs after you become a candidate, there will be consequences that could include disqualification.

  • Who is eligible to run?

    Any woman who is a high school junior up to their 21st birthday, and either lives, works, OR attends school in Red Wing.

  • Can I be a candidate a 2nd time?

    Yes! Candidates who are not selected as Ambassadors are eligible to be candidates again in the future as long as the candidate still meets the age and other criteria listed above.

  • What if I'm not sure if I want to be selected as an Ambassador? Can I still be a candidate?

    Yes! Young women are welcome to participate only for the Candidate Program and have the right to opt out of being selected as an Ambassador if they so choose.

  • Must I provide my own sponsor?

    Candidates are encouraged to find their own sponsor, but the committee will assist in finding a sponsor if needed. The cost of sponsorship is $450. The sponsoring business will receive publicity proceeding and during River City Days.

  • Does this program have a talent or swimsuit competition?

    NO! Our program does not have a talent or swimsuit competition. The Red Wing Royal Ambassador program is NOT a beauty contest, it is a scholarship program.

  • Can a candidate be married?

    This program is open to candidates who have never been married nor have had a marriage annulled, are not pregnant or have children. Upon accepting the title, if chosen, the Ambassador agrees that she will not marry during her reign. These rules are in conjunction with the Minneapolis Aquatennial.

  • Will I be disqualified if I miss a scheduled candidate event?

    No. We do make exceptions for missed appearances for legitimate reasons, as long as we know in advance. But please note, each event is tailored to help candidates grow and have fun. It may also be one less chance for the judges to observe you.

  • If I am selected as one of the three Red Wing Royal Ambassadors, how much time is required?

    A Red Wing Royal Ambassador’s term of service is one year. Most of the appearances are at parades and coronations during the weekends and summer months. You will also be scheduled at numerous local community events.

  • Can I still be selected as an Ambassador if I am going away to college?

    Yes. Most appearances are scheduled during the summer months, and we work around college schedules during the year. Because the Red Wing Royal Ambassador Organization is a scholarship program, education is a top priority. The Red Wing Royal Ambassador Organization Committee works with ambassadors to schedule appearances around school schedules.

  • What do I receive if I am selected as an Ambassador?

    Serving as a Royal Ambassador is a very unique and rewarding opportunity. You will receive an educational scholarship up to $2,000 at the end of your reign. You will also receive a wardrobe, which will include at least one evening gown and business attire. In addition, one ambassador will have the opportunity to continue on to compete for the title of Minneapolis Aquatennial Queen of the Lakes or Princess.

  • How will my family be involved if I am selected as an Ambassador?

    Parents play a role during the Ambassadors' year. They are involved with transportation and assisting with setting up and/or taking down of the Red Wing float at parades. They may also choose to take part in chaperoning and fundraising opportunities. While parental involvement is appreciated, this is NOT part of the ambassador selection process.

  • What will I gain by participating in the Red Wing Royal Ambassador Program?

    You will enrich your personal and professional skills including poise, presentation and speaking skills and a greater confidence in yourself. This experience is a stepping-stone to post-high school education or a future professional career.