[NEW YORK, NY] November 18, 2025 — The holiday season in Manhattan officially sparkled to life as Cassie Donegan, Miss America 2026, took center stage at this year’s Miracle on Madison celebration. Cassie had the honor of participating in the beloved annual tradition by cutting the ribbon and switching on the dazzling holiday lights that illuminated 114 decorated street trees along Madison Avenue between East 57th and East 86th Streets.
Free and open to the public, the event featured a special on-stage appearance where Cassie greeted attendees with warm remarks before performing one of her favorite holiday songs, an a cappella rendition of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”
She was joined by officials from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the beloved MSK Caring Canine therapy dogs, and the Madison Avenue holiday carolers, creating a festive and joyful atmosphere for all who gathered.
Cassie’s appearance also marked the official kickoff of the 39th Annual Miracle on Madison on Saturday, December 6—one of New York City’s most cherished holiday shopping traditions. Each year, participating Madison Avenue retailers donate 20% of the day’s sales to support the pediatric cancer programs of The Society of Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) Cancer Center. To find participating retailers, click here: https://madisonavenuebid.org/event/39th-annual-miracle-on-madison-avenue/
Earlier in the day, Cassie also had the special opportunity to visit pediatric cancer patients at Memorial Sloan Kettering, spreading warmth, encouragement, and holiday cheer to young patients and their families.
Cassie was proud to support this meaningful event, celebrating community, compassion, and the true spirit of the season.
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About Miss America
Miss America is the nation’s premier empowerment platform for young women, with service to community at the core of its impact. Participants pursue personal and professional growth while inspiring others as positive role models. With its mission of Empowering Women to Lead, Miss America is also the largest provider of tuition scholarships for women in the United States, distributed through the Miss America’s Scholarship Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization.