ELKINS — Youngsters interested in competing to become an official Mountain State Forest Festival jester don’t have long to wait.

Clinics and a tryout for jesters for the 87th Mountain State Forest Festival will begin in April. Randolph County students who will be enrolled in grades sixth through 10th by Sept. 1, 2025, are eligible.

Jester applicants will be judged on an original paragraph of 100 words or less on “Why I Want To Be a Jester”; a group routine including simple dance steps to be taught during jester clinics; and their own individual 1-2 minute routine.

Participants will also be judged on their appearance, attitude, smile, personality, and gymnastics and dance ability. An educator reference, an attendance and grade report, and a personal reference will be required.

To be eligible, participants must attend all three Jester clinics at the Elkins High School Gym. Clinics are scheduled 6:30-8 p.m. on Monday, April 14; Wednesday, April 16; and Thursday, April 17. Tryouts will take place at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 19 at the Elkins High School Gym.

The mandatory parent meeting is set for 6:30 p.m. on Monday, April 14 at the Elkins High School Gym before the start of the first clinic. An informational meeting to answer questions for parents and potential participants will be held on Wednesday, March 26 at 6:30 p.m. at the Mountain State Forest Festival Office located at 10 Eleventh Street (the West Virginia Wood Technology Center in the Industrial Park).

Jester tryout packets are available for pickup at the Mountain State Forest Festival office and will be available at the informational meeting. A parent or guardian must sign the liability release before any student can participate in the clinics or tryouts.

The Mountain State Forest Festival Jesters are included in all Minor Court activities including school tours, Coronation, and parades.

The Jesters will “Embrace Nature’s Charm” — this year’s MSFF theme — as they tumble, dance and perform for Maid Silvia, her court and patrons of the 87th Mountain State Forest Festival, which will be held from Sept. 27 through Oct. 5.

Anyone interested can call the Forest Festival Office at 304-636-1824 or visit www.forestfestival.com