The Rhododendron Court Coronation is a an annual community "You don't want to miss" event and the kick-off to the Rhody Festival each year, taking place the Saturday before Rhody weekend. The Coronation features 5 elementary school junior princesses and 10 high school senior princes and princesses who were selected in December and have worked for months to culminate their efforts at the Rhody Court Coronation. This professional, fast paced and festive show features modeling, talent, impromptu questions and more and concludes with the crowning of the King of the Coast and Queen Rhododendra. The 2025 Coronation will also feature a newly created "Rhody Roots" award given to a community member who has contributed behind the scenes to the Rhody Court and to his success and history.