Miss America 2026 Finals Begin Florida with 52 Contestants

Several prominent pageants are underway as contestants prepare to compete for titles representing their states and countries in national and international competitions. Kennedy Holland, Miss Arkansas 2025 and a senior at the University of Central Arkansas, is competing in the upcoming Miss America pageant in Orlando, where she promotes her Compassion Legacy initiative advocating for adaptive recreational spaces. Similarly, Emma Terry, Miss Alabama 2025, is among 52 women competing for Miss America 2026, with the contest featuring substantial scholarship awards and live-streamed events. Addison Shoemaker, Miss Alabama's Teen 2025, vies for the Miss America's Teen 2026 crown, emphasizing philanthropic efforts for children's hospitals. Internationally, Lillian Nompumelelo Andries was crowned Miss Universe Botswana 2025 and will represent Botswana at Miss Universe 2025 in Thailand. Additionally, Paige Ewing, Mrs. Georgia, was named Mrs. America 2025, continuing the tradition of celebrating married women in pageantry and preparing to represent the U.S. at Mrs. World 2026.