Introduction
The Miss America 2026 pageant, held at the Walt Disney Theater in Orlando, Florida, was more than just a dazzling display of gowns and glitter – it was a powerful showcase of intelligence, talent, advocacy, and ambition. With 52 contestants representing every U.S. state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, this year’s competition reaffirmed the evolving identity of Miss America: a modern woman who leads with purpose, educates with passion, and inspires with authenticity.
Table of Contents
🌟 The Crown of Miss America 2026 Goes to Cassie Donegan
The spotlight of the evening belonged to Cassie Donegan, Miss New York, who was crowned Miss America 2026 on September 7, 2025. Her journey to the crown was marked by poise, eloquence, and a heartfelt commitment to education and the arts. Cassie’s platform focused on arts accessibility and youth empowerment, resonating deeply with both the judges and the audience.
Cassie became the eighth Miss New York to win the national title, joining a legacy of accomplished women who have used the crown as a springboard for advocacy and leadership. Her victory was not just a personal triumph – it was a statement about the power of creativity, community service, and resilience.
🩰 Talent That Transcends
While Cassie took home the crown, the Miss America 2026 competition was fierce and inspiring. Among the standout performances was Emma Terry, Miss Alabama, who earned the fourth runner-up spot with a breathtaking ballet en pointe routine to What a Feeling from Flashdance. Her grace and emotional depth captivated the audience and showcased the artistic excellence that defines the Miss America 2026 stage.
Other finalists included:
- Sadie Schiermeyer (Miss Texas) – First Runner-Up
- Paris Richardson (Miss Florida) – Second Runner-Up
- Audrey Kittila (Miss Georgia) – Third Runner-Up
Each finalist of Miss America 2026 brought a unique voice and vision to the competition, proving that Miss America is no longer just about beauty – it’s about brilliance, boldness, and breaking boundaries.
🎤 The Competition Format: More Than Meets the Eye
The Miss America 2026 pageant unfolded over a week of preliminary events, culminating in the grand finale on Sunday, September 7. The competition included:
- Health & Fitness: A modern twist on physical wellness and confidence, where contestants showcased their commitment to healthy living.
- Talent: From opera to dance, spoken word to instrumental music, this segment highlighted the creative passions of each contestant.
- Evening Gown: A celebration of elegance and personal style, judged not just on appearance but on presence and poise.
- On-Stage Question: A test of composure and intellect, where contestants tackled topics ranging from education policy to mental health advocacy.
This format reflects the Miss America Organization’s commitment to holistic evaluation – celebrating women who are not only accomplished but also articulate and socially conscious.
The Sub-Contests of Miss America 2026 and Their Dazzling Winners
With 52 delegates representing every U.S. state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico, this year’s event was a vibrant mosaic of culture, creativity, and purpose. While the crown of Miss America 2026 ultimately went to Cassie Donegan of New York, the spotlight also shone brightly on the sub-contests – those specialized segments that allowed each contestant to showcase her unique strengths. From dance and vocal performances to storytelling and instrumental mastery, these sub-contests were the soul of the competition.
🎤 Vocal Performance: Voices That Moved the Nation
The vocal category was one of the most competitive, with over a dozen contestants choosing to express themselves through song. These performances ranged from classical arias to contemporary ballads, each revealing emotional depth and technical prowess.
Winner: Cassie Donegan (Miss New York) Cassie’s rendition of a soulful jazz piece captivated the judges and audience alike. Her vocal control, emotional delivery, and stage presence were unmatched, earning her top honors in this category.
Other notable vocalists included:
- Kinley Shoemaker (Indiana) – A powerful operatic performance.
- Olivia Fosson (Ohio) – A heartfelt country ballad.
- Amber Pike (Washington) – A violin-accompanied vocal fusion.
💃 Dance: Grace, Rhythm, and Power
Dance was another highlight, with contestants performing everything from ballet to hip hop. Each routine was a reflection of personal style and cultural heritage.
Winner: Gabrielle Gramont (Miss Colorado) Gabrielle’s contemporary dance piece was a masterclass in storytelling through movement. Her choreography, fluidity, and emotional resonance earned her the top spot.
Honorable mentions:
- Ellie Daniels (Idaho) – A lyrical dance with stunning technique.
- Sadie Schiermeyer (Texas) – A high-energy jazz routine.
- Jamee Kattner (South Dakota) – A fusion of modern and classical styles.
🎭 HER Story: Empowerment Through Personal Narrative
Introduced in recent years, the HER Story segment allows contestants to deliver a 90-second speech about a personal experience or cause they champion. It’s a platform for advocacy, vulnerability, and leadership.
Winner: Maria Derisavi (Miss Maryland) Maria’s speech on mental health awareness, inspired by her own journey, was raw, eloquent, and deeply moving. Her ability to connect with the audience and articulate a powerful message made her the clear winner.
Other standout speakers:
- Paige Lessard (Maine) – Advocated for women in STEM.
- Khailah Griffin (Massachusetts) – Spoke on racial equity in education.
- Tessa Dorrell (Oklahoma) – Shared her work with foster youth.
🎻 Instrumental Talent: Music That Speaks Without Words
Instrumental performances added a rich layer to the competition, showcasing technical skill and artistic interpretation.
Winner: Amber Pike (Miss Washington) Amber’s violin solo was a hauntingly beautiful piece that demonstrated both virtuosity and emotional depth. Her performance earned a standing ovation and the top prize in this category.
Other instrumentalists:
- Audrey Kittila (Georgia) – A stirring violin duet.
- Khailah Griffin (Massachusetts) – A classical piano piece.
- Courtney Bearer (West Virginia) – A rhythmic hula hoop dance with musical elements.
🩰 Ballet and Classical Dance: Elegance in Motion
Several contestants chose ballet or pointe routines, emphasizing grace, discipline, and storytelling through classical technique.
Winner: Emma Terry (Miss Alabama) Emma’s en pointe ballet routine was a tribute to resilience, performed with precision and poise. Her technical mastery and emotive expression earned her the ballet crown.
Other classical dancers:
- Anna Leah Jolly (Mississippi) – A romantic ballet piece.
- Courtney Rowe (Missouri) – A jazz-infused classical routine.
🕺 Tap and Rhythmic Dance: Beats That Brought the Stage Alive
Tap and rhythmic dance routines brought energy and flair to the stage, with contestants using their feet to create music and rhythm.
Winner: Victoria Vespico (Miss Pennsylvania) Victoria’s tap dance was a dynamic blend of rhythm and storytelling, earning her the top spot in this lively category.
Other rhythmic stars:
- Xanthi Russell (New Hampshire) – A fast-paced tap routine.
- Anna Musick (Wyoming) – A rhythmic tap with theatrical elements.
🎨 Unique Talents: Ventriloquism, Color Guard, and More
Some contestants brought truly unique talents to the stage, reminding us that creativity knows no bounds.
Winner: Tiffany Ellington (Miss Arizona) Tiffany’s ventriloquism act was both hilarious and heartfelt, showcasing her comedic timing and storytelling skills. It was a refreshing break from traditional performances and earned her the win in the “Unique Talent” category.
Other creative acts:
- Hailey Mack (Delaware) – A color guard routine with patriotic flair.
- Willow Newell (Wisconsin) – A hula hoop dance that combined athleticism and artistry.
🧘 Health and Fitness: Strength Meets Style
The Health and Fitness segment emphasized physical wellness, confidence, and athleticism. Contestants modeled athletic wear while demonstrating fitness routines or movements.
Winner: Mya Cash (Miss Oregon) Mya’s fitness routine was a blend of acrobatics and dance, highlighting her strength, flexibility, and charisma. Her performance embodied the modern ideal of holistic health.
Other fitness standouts:
- Paris Richardson (Florida) – An acrobatic jazz routine.
- Cayla Kumar (Connecticut) – A high-energy dance workout.
👗 Evening Gown: Elegance and Presence
While not a talent segment, the Evening Gown competition remains a staple of Miss America. It’s a moment for contestants to showcase poise, style, and grace.
Winner: Sophia Kellstrom (Miss North Carolina) Sophia’s gown – a shimmering sapphire creation – was matched by her regal walk and confident demeanor. She embodied timeless elegance and earned the highest score in this category.
Other fashion icons:
- Rachel Axt (California) – A bold, modern silhouette.
- Sarah Kay Wrenn (South Carolina) – A classic gown with intricate detailing.
🎓 Scholarships and Service: The Heart of Miss America 2026
One of the most transformative aspects of the Miss America competition is its scholarship program. The Miss America 2026 winner, Cassie Donegan, received a $50,000 scholarship to further her education. Runners-up and semi-finalists also earned substantial awards, reinforcing the organization’s mission to support academic achievement.
Beyond the crown, Miss America serves as a national ambassador for community service. Cassie’s platform, centered on arts education, will guide her yearlong reign as she travels the country advocating for creative equity and youth engagement.
👗 Miss America’s Teen 2026: Rising Stars
Parallel to the main event, the Miss America’s Teen 2026 competition crowned Tess Ferm of South Carolina. A freshman at Furman University, Tess won a $30,000 scholarship and will promote her platform, From Fear to Freedom, which focuses on food allergy safety and education.
The teen competition featured 52 contestants and included segments such as talent, fitness, evening gown, and on-stage questions. Tess’s win highlights the next generation of changemakers—young women who are already making a difference in their communities.
📺 Streaming and Accessibility of Miss America 2026: A Digital Evolution
In a nod to changing media habits, the Miss America 2026 finals were streamed live on PageantVision.com and the official Miss America YouTube channel. This digital-first approach made the event accessible to a global audience, breaking down barriers and inviting fans from all walks of life to witness the magic.
The shift away from traditional television also reflects the organization’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity – ensuring that anyone with an internet connection can be part of the celebration.
🏨 Orlando: The Pageant Capital
Hosting the competition at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts in Orlando added a touch of grandeur to the proceedings. The city, known for its vibrant culture and hospitality, welcomed contestants, families, and fans with open arms.
The Loews Sapphire Falls Resort served as the host hotel, offering a luxurious backdrop for rehearsals, bonding, and behind-the-scenes moments. From themed dinners to empowerment workshops, the week was packed with events that fostered camaraderie and personal growth.
💬 Cultural Impact and Critique
Miss America has long been a mirror of American society – reflecting its values, aspirations, and evolving definitions of womanhood. The 2026 competition continued this tradition, embracing diversity and amplifying voices that challenge stereotypes.
Yet, the pageant is not without its critics. Some argue that despite its progress, Miss America still grapples with outdated beauty standards and commercial pressures. Others question the relevance of pageantry in a post-feminist era.
But the contestants themselves offer a compelling counter-narrative. They are scholars, activists, artists, and leaders – using the platform to amplify causes that matter. From mental health awareness to STEM education, their work transcends the stage and enters the realm of real-world impact.
🌍 Looking Ahead: The Future of Miss America
Cassie Donegan’s win marks a new chapter for Miss America 2026 – one that prioritizes purpose over perfection. As she embarks on her reign, she will face the challenge of balancing tradition with transformation.
The organization, too, must continue evolving. With growing emphasis on inclusivity, transparency, and social relevance, Miss America has the potential to become not just a pageant, but a movement.
Future competitions may explore new formats, expand scholarship offerings, and deepen partnerships with educational institutions and nonprofits. The goal? To ensure that every contestant – whether she wins or not – leaves empowered, enriched, and ready to lead.
✨ Final Thoughts on Miss America 2026
The Miss America 2026 pageant was a dazzling celebration of excellence, empathy, and empowerment. From Cassie Donegan’s inspiring victory to the heartfelt performances of every contestant, the event reminded us that beauty is multifaceted – and that leadership begins with authenticity.
As the curtain falls on this year’s competition, one thing is clear: Miss America is no longer just a crown. It’s a calling.
Also read about “Cassie Donegan’s Story of Talent, Advocacy, and Triumph at Miss America 2026“.