The Miss America pageant is one of the most anticipated events of the year, showcasing the grace, intelligence, and talent of young women from across the United States. With the 2026 Miss America pageant approaching this weekend in Orlando, Florida, excitement is building as fans prepare to witness the crowning of the new titleholder. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to watch and stream the event, along with key details about this year’s competition and contestants.
When is the Miss America Pageant?
The Miss America finals will take place on Sunday, September 7, 2026. Leading up to the grand finale, there have been preliminary competitions showcasing the talents and advocacy initiatives of contestants from various states.
How to Watch the Pageant
In a departure from traditional broadcasts, the finals will not be televised on standard television channels this year. However, fans can still catch all the pageant action online. The finals will stream live starting at 6 p.m. CT (7 p.m. ET) on September 7. Viewers can watch for free on PageantVision.com or via the Miss America YouTube channel. This convenient access reflects a trend toward digital streaming for major events, making it easier for fans to engage with the pageant regardless of their location.
Who Are the Contestants This Year?
This year, 52 contestants will compete for the prestigious title of Miss America. Among them are women representing all 50 states, as well as contestants from Puerto Rico and Washington, D.C. One standout participant is Emma Terry, who recently won the Miss Alabama title and aims to bring home the crown this year. Emma, a proud graduate with bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, champions the initiative Stomping Out ALS One Step at a Time as part of her platform.
Alabama’s Strong Miss America Legacy
Alabama boasts a rich history in the Miss America pageant, with four winners to date: Yolande Betbeze (1950), Heather Whitestone (1994), Deidre Downs (2004), and the current titleholder, Abbie Stockard (2025). Emma Terry would be the fifth Miss Alabama to earn the national title if she succeeds in the competition, highlighting Alabama’s notable contributions to the pageant’s legacy.
Scholarship Opportunities
Alongside the honor of becoming Miss America, the title comes with a scholarship award of $50,000, emphasizing the pageant’s commitment to empowering young women through education. Additionally, there are numerous other scholarships, ranging from $3,000 to $10,000, presented to various contestants during the event. These funds aim to support their educational pursuits and community service initiatives.
Final Thoughts
As the final preparations for the Miss America 2026 pageant unfold, anticipation is high among fans, contestants, and sponsors alike. The event not only celebrates beauty and talent but also highlights the advocacy work of participants, shedding light on pressing social issues.
Miss America continues to evolve, demonstrating its adaptability and relevance in today’s digital age. With the ability to stream the pageant live, a wider audience can now engage with the competition and cheer on their favorite contestants.
So, mark your calendars for September 7, prepare your viewing devices, and get ready to celebrate the accomplishments and aspirations of young women vying for the title of Miss America 2026. Whether you’re a long-time supporter of the pageant or tuning in for the first time, the experience promises to be exhilarating and inspiring.
