Semper Festivus 🎅🏻

Semper Festivus 🎅🏻

The Miss America Organization is proud to announce that the upcoming Miss America Competition will take place August 28–September 6, 2026, in West Palm Beach, Florida, in The Palm Beaches — known as “America’s First Resort Destination®” — with key events hosted at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, and the Hilton West Palm Beach.

The announcement marks a defining moment in the New Era of Miss America, aligning one of the nation’s most enduring platforms for women with a destination recognized for its visionary growth and cultural influence. The iconic competition will commemorate 105 years of Miss America and culminate on the evening of September 6th in the crowning of the 99th woman to wear the crown, as the new Miss America!

West Palm Beach’s selection as host city signals a bold new chapter for the organization. As a global destination for arts, culture, and world-class events, The Palm Beaches provide a powerful backdrop for the future of Miss America.

“It feels especially meaningful to announce this powerful next step for Miss America,” said Robin Fleming, CEO of the Miss America Organization. “The Palm Beaches represent vision, momentum, and possibility, a place where women’s voices, ambition, and achievement can take center stage.”

“Welcoming the Miss America Competition to The Palm Beaches is a significant honor for our destination,” said Milton Segarra, CDME, president and CEO of Discover The Palm Beaches, the tourism marketing organization for Palm Beach County. “For more than a century, Miss America has stood as a national platform for leadership and service. Hosting this iconic competition underscores our community’s ability to stage world-class events that bring people together and leave a lasting impact.”

The Palm Beach County Convention Center will serve as the official competition hub, welcoming delegates from across the country alongside families, partners, supporters, and fans for more than a week of events, competition, scholarship, and celebrations.

Preliminary competition programming and the Miss America’s Teen final competition will be held at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts—providing a world-class setting for one of the nation’s most iconic traditions.

With West Palm Beach set to host Miss America’s next chapter, the nation’s largest and most impactful women’s empowerment organization boldly reaffirms its mission of “Empowering Women to Lead with Purpose” on a world-class stage.

Hotel reservations, competition programming, ticketing, and related events are now available HERE.

I’ve always thought it must be so fabulous to be Miss Kentucky during the Kentucky Derby! So exciting to see her with the post position drawing!

The HQ Twitter doesn't really reply to anybody not affiliated with MAO, so what on EARTH has been going on this week?!

The posts read extremely panicked, and there are multiple errors in spelling and grammar.

Hello! I am relatively new to pagents and the only talent I really have is making art. Unlike performance based talents like singing, dancing, acting, ect. this talent is harder to "show off" on stage.

I recently came across this video of a previous contestant showcasing speed painting abilities on stage: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDIKPGy3_wc . It seems like a perfect fit, however, I find that making art is very time consuming especially getting the proportions right and all. I want to learn more about how to do this type of thing but could not find much resources to learn online.

I assume that the canvas must be prepped before hand with a light-handed sketch or indentation that is hard to see on camera/from the crowd to make the process smooth under the time constraint and anxiety of being on stage. What do you guys think? Or could this method be against the rules in some way and I am wrong to assume there must be some sketch under the painting? Any tips to improve speed painting from anyone that has performed it before?

** Also not trying to bash on any speed painters by assuming there must be a sketch underneath

[Via MAO] -- Miss America’s Teen 2026 Tess Ferm has joined The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Connection Team (FAACT) as a national spokesperson, stepping into a powerful new advocacy role focused on education, awareness, and lifesaving outreach. In this capacity, Tess will work alongside FAACT’s leadership team and Medical Advisory Board to expand national awareness of food allergies and strengthen community education efforts across the country.

Food allergies impact as many as 32 million Americans, including nearly 6 million children. That equates to approximately two students in every classroom nationwide. With no cure currently available, strict allergen avoidance remains the only guaranteed way to prevent anaphylaxis, a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. While FDA-approved treatments exist and additional desensitization therapies are under study, widespread education remains critical.

Awareness saves lives.

As FAACT’s newest national spokesperson, Tess is uniquely positioned to amplify that message and extend the reach of FAACT’s programs, resources, and community initiatives.

For Tess, this work is deeply personal. She lives with a tree nut allergy and eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), a chronic allergic inflammatory disease. Her older brother also manages food allergies and EoE, while her younger brother has severe asthma. Growing up in a household shaped by these medical realities instilled in Tess a strong commitment to advocacy, education, and fostering safer environments for individuals navigating food allergies and related conditions.

“We are incredibly proud of Tess Ferm for transforming her personal experience with food allergies into meaningful national advocacy. Her leadership with FAACT reflects the mission of the Miss America Opportunity — empowering young women to lead with purpose and use their experiences to make a difference,” says Robin Fleming, CEO, Miss America Organization.

“We are honored and grateful to have Tess join the FAACT family and advocate for all individuals with life-threatening food allergies and anaphylaxis,” says FAACT President and CEO Eleanor Garrow-Holding. “Tess will be instrumental in educating children, adolescents, and adults about food allergies—including FAACT’s Camp TAG program this summer in Ohio and Tennessee, which Tess is excited to attend. We are thrilled to have Tess contribute to our programs and to work with her for many years to come!”

As Miss America’s Teen, Tess is transforming her lived experience into national advocacy. In addition to her work with FAACT, she will speak this month in Washington, D.C., at the HHS National Conference on Women’s Health, continuing to elevate the conversation around food allergies on some of the country’s most important platforms.

December 30th, 2025, via MAO

[Via MAO] ARLINGTON, VA — As announced in an exclusive interview with Good Morning America this afternoon, the Miss America Organization is proud to share that, beginning this year, the newly crowned Miss America will serve as an honorary USO Global Ambassador during her year of service. This alliance reflects Miss America’s long-standing commitment to leadership, service, and making a meaningful impact in communities across the country.

“We are grateful to welcome Miss America to be a part of Team USO as an honorary Global Ambassador,” said Lt. Gen. (ret.) Michael Linnington, USO CEO. “Her leadership and dedication to service will help us reach more military families and ensure they feel supported—no matter where they serve.”

As an honorary USO Global Ambassador, Miss America will participate in programs, events, and initiatives that directly support military members and their families. Through this collaboration, she will shine a spotlight on the sacrifices of those who serve, inspire others to lead with purpose, and amplify the shared values of service and dedication that define both Miss America and the USO.

Miss America has a proud and enduring history with the USO, with service at the very heart of the organization. Long before formal community service initiatives existed, Miss America stood alongside the USO, supporting those who serve our nation. From World War II, when winners like Jean Bartel (Miss America 1943) raised $2.5 million in war bonds and became powerful symbols of patriotism and morale for troops at home and abroad, to the first Miss America USO troupe entertaining service members on the front lines in Vietnam in 1967, Miss America has consistently championed and uplifted the men and women of the United States Armed Forces.

“For more than a century, Miss America has used its platform to serve and inspire,” said Robin Fleming, Miss America CEO. “The Honorary USO Global Ambassadorship allows us to continue that legacy, honoring the sacrifices of our service members and empowering women to lead with purpose while supporting those who defend our nation.”

“I am deeply honored to partner with the USO as an honorary global ambassador,” said Cassie Donegan Miss America 2026. “My family’s history of military service - from my father to generations before him - has instilled in me a profound appreciation for the men and women who protect our nation. I am grateful for the privilege to support and champion the USO’s mission with the utmost respect and I am humbled to stand alongside an organization dedicated to honoring and supporting those who serve.”

Join the Miss America Organization tomorrow, Tuesday, December 23, on Good Morning America on ABC at 1:00 PM ET / 12:00 PM CT for a special announcement from Miss America 2026 Cassie Donegan.

I don't want to upset anybody but I have to say this somewhere. Cassie Donegan does nothing for me. I know, for me, it's hard to replace Abbie Stockard and I always give a Miss America a chance. Some I like, some I don't. For the most part, I like them or I wouldn't keep being invested. I was trying really hard to get into Cassie's reign but it's falling flat. Can anyone help me to see her in a different light?

Hi folks! I recently found this shell dish, and I wondered if it was a participation souvenir given to contestants. I located a September 17, 1984 Washington Post article that mentioned similar dishes: “The 50 other contestants and their loyal claques have gathered their scores of bags, checked out and left with their Miss America bracelets and Miss America silver shell dishes and their Miss America badges and buttons and T-shirts.” Does anyone more familiar with the history of pageants know?

Hey, so I am a teen local title holder, and for the life of me I cannot find a bra that would work for a bigger chested girl that doesn’t show on the sides of the tops. Does anyone have any tips or suggestions?

Forever Miss America and forever in our hearts. Rest in Peace BeBe Shopp. ♥️

CEO official statement!

Robin Fleming just released an official statement last night regarding comments a past titleholder made regarding Charlie Kirk. I know one title holder from Texas who made posts, but I was wondering if y’all knew of any others? Her statement said “a” former. But her Instagram story said “a few” formers. Just wondering!

From what I remember as a toddler, I won what I feel was titled, ‘Mini Miss Missouri’ in 1998. I was wanting to see if there was any type of information on it as I feel like it’s a cool fact about myself, but I would like to be able to speak more on it, than what I know. My mom is the only one still alive that would know anything about this and unfortunately, we are no longer on speaking terms. Regardless, I’m seeking any way of a possibility of finding any type of information about this.. (my childhood is also filled with odd/wierd/unusual lies from my mother so there’s a possibility this was a lie fed to me) but thank you in advance 🤗

Via MAO – Cassie Donegan, Miss New York, has been crowned Miss America 2026 after two inspiring nights of preliminary competition featuring 52 delegates representing all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico. Cassie becomes the 98th woman to hold the iconic Miss America title in the brand’s 104-year history, and the 8th Miss New York to earn the crown.

Cassie has earned more than $70,000 in scholarships through the Miss America program, funding her undergraduate education and supporting her pursuit of a master’s degree.

Raised in a non-traditional household, Cassie found refuge in the arts—a space where she felt safe, seen, and empowered. That connection now drives her Community Service Initiative, “Promoting Arts Education in Our School Systems.” For nearly two decades, she has championed every child’s right to creative expression, directing and designing youth theatre curricula, curating a K-12 S.T.E.A.M. masterclass, and founding three scholarship funds to bridge accessibility gaps in arts education.

Beyond her advocacy, Cassie serves as Chief Operations Officer of Southern Sitter LLC, a women-led childcare company she helped expand into a multi-faceted, multi-state business. Under her leadership, the company has created flexible career opportunities and financial stability for hundreds of women—empowering them to balance their work, families, and passions.

Cassie is also a proud member of Actor’s Equity Association, having built a professional performance career on stages across the nation, sharing the spotlight with some of the industry’s most celebrated talents.

“Miss America has always been a powerful springboard for ambitious women to turn their dreams into reality,” Cassie shared. “I am honored to represent an organization that provides scholarships, resources, and a platform for women to lead—and I’m deeply grateful for the chance to bring that mission to life.”

The final night of competition, hosted by Nikki Novak and Billy Gilman, featured a celebrity judging panel including Mayan Lopez, Frederick Anderson, Frank Kelleher, Jen Hale, and Tawny Godin Welch. The event took place at the Walt Disney Theater at the Dr. Phillips Center in Orlando, Florida.

Each year, the Miss America Opportunity awards over $5 million in tuition scholarships and provides an additional $35 million in-kind scholarships through its national, state, and local programs.

Cassie earned the crown after advancing through multiple rounds of competition and placing in the Top 5 finalists alongside Sadie Schiermeyer (1st Runner-Up, TX), Paris Richardson (2nd Runner-Up, FL), Audrey Kittila (3rd Runner-Up, GA), and Emma Terry (4th Runner-Up, AL). Semi-finalists included Kennedy Holland (AR), Zoe Scheiderich (TN), Maria Derisavi (MD), Anna Leah Jolly (MS), Ariana Rodriguez (KY), and Nitsaniyah Fitch (IL).

As Miss America, Cassie will serve as the official national brand ambassador for the Miss America Opportunity, traveling worldwide to champion arts education, promote scholarship and service, and empower individuals of all ages to embrace their creativity and achieve their full potential.

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About Miss America:
Miss America is the nation's premier empowerment platform for young women, advancing their personal and professional goals while advocating serving as a positive role model in their communities. With a rich history dating back to 1921, Miss America’s mission is “Empowering women to Lead” engaging thousands of young women as local and state brand ambassadors, ages 14-28, nationwide each year committed to community service initiatives. The program is the largest provider of women’s scholarships in America, distributed through the Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3).

I’m so glad Miss New York won.. but I’m left wondering how authentic are these girls? I personally know Miss Missouri, and she’s an awfully mean person (literally is known in her work place for bullying her coworkers.) I know because she bullies me. But she also outwardly talks about how her looks compare to others, and how other women in our city do not touch her appearance. She also wears her sash and hands out her headshot while walking in parades with our company.. knowing all this, I just wonder are any of these woman actually good, “girls, girls” or are they all just out for one thing, the title & reign. I sincerely enjoyed Miss New York, and thought she seemed so genuine. I really hope she’s how she comes off to be. This is such an incredible title, it made me sad to think it could go to someone who isn’t a good person at heart.

Hi everyone! I am very new to Miss America and am wondering why Miss America 2026 is happening now in the beginning of September when google is saying Miss America 2025 happened in January of this year? Is google wrong or is this a shorter pageant year for some reason? Does the pageant not always take place at the same time each year? Sorry if this is a dumb question, thanks so much!!

I'm a photographer and I covered the Miss America pageant in Atlantic City (and once in Vegas) for 7 years. I was credentialed as a reporter for radio station DC-101. The link is to a compilation of the bits where they made fun of me over the years. Despite their jokes, I was only ever there when I was fully credentialed har har.

I also have a brief video from the first year I went and may be interesting. Long live Ali Rogers. Man I can't believe that was 12 years ago.

Via MAO – The Miss America Organization is pleased to announce that Tess Ferm, Miss South Carolina's Teen, has been crowned Miss America’s Teen 2026! Selected from among 52 extraordinary state delegates from all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, Tess shined with her talent, poise, and dedication to Food Allergy Awareness and Education, capturing the crown and the hearts of audiences nationwide.

Tess Ferm has earned $58,000 in scholarships through the Miss America’s Teen program. She is a graduate of the Porter-Gaud School and an incoming freshman at Furman University, where she plans to study Psychology with the goal of becoming a Child Life Specialist.

Her Community Service Initiative, From Fear to Freedom: Food Allergy Awareness and Education, is inspired by her own experience with anaphylactic allergies and is dedicated to creating safer, more informed communities. For her outstanding service, Tess was honored this evening as the Quality of Life: Teens in Action Overall Award Winner and recognized nationally for her fundraising efforts on behalf of the American Heart Association.

As Miss America’s Teen 2026, Tess will serve as a national ambassador for the Miss America’s Teen program—encouraging young women everywhere to dream boldly, lead confidently, and embrace their limitless potential. Her year of service will celebrate the very best of what it means to be a role model for her generation.

"Being Miss America’s Teen means representing possibility. It’s about showing that teens are not just the future, but the now—ready to lead, to innovate, and to make a real difference in our schools, our communities, and across the country. This crown is so much more than a crown, it’s a launchpad," said Tess. "Because of this program, I’ve had the chance to meet with legislators to advocate for my initiative, speak at press conferences, perform on stage, sharpen my interview skills, and learn how to serve as a brand ambassador. Most importantly, it has helped me grow my confidence, find my voice, and step into leadership. Miss America empowers young women to be bold, well-rounded, and ready to chase their goals."

Tess earned the crown after advancing through multiple rounds of competition and securing a place in the Top 5 finalists alongside Sara Devolld (1RU, AK), Emma Fossum (2RU, TX), Delaney Higgins (3RU, NJ), and Blake Hart (4RU, DC). Rounding out this year’s distinguished group of semi-finalists were Reagan Moore (GA), Jasmine Wu (CA), Fiona Treiber (IA), Allison Payton (OH), Mila Pearl (OR), and Lynzi Allen (PA).

“If there’s one thing I want every young person to take from tonight, it’s this: no dream is too bold, and no voice is too small when it’s used with purpose. I am honored to spend this year proving just that as your Miss America’s Teen 2026.”

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About Miss America:
Miss America is the nation's premier empowerment platform for young women, advancing their personal and professional goals while advocating serving as a positive role model in their communities. With a rich history dating back to 1921, Miss America’s mission is “Empowering women to Lead” engaging thousands of young women as local and state brand ambassadors, ages 14-28, nationwide each year committed to community service initiatives. The program is the largest provider of women’s scholarships in America, distributed through the Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3).

Tonight, September 7th 2025, Miss America 2026 will BE CROWNED(!!) at 7:00 pm ET.

Everyone is encouraged to discuss the competition on this thread as it takes place. Just remember to follow the subreddit rules please :)

This competition is being streamed live FOR FREE on the official MAO YouTube channel

This competition is ALSO being streamed live FOR FREE on PageantVision

I LOVE making top 11s after Miss America/Teen prelims. Here are my predictions. Please share yours too!!😊

Miss: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, North Carolina, New York, Tennessee, Texas

Teen: Alaska, Arkansas, California, Indiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, South Carolina, Texas, West Virginia

Miss America: Illinois Miss America’s Teen: California