[WINONA, MINNESOTA.] June 20, 2026 — Miss America 2026 Cassie Donegan was a special guest at this year’s Steamboat Days in Winona, Minnesota, a beloved community tradition that has welcomed thousands of visitors each summer for generations. The five-day celebration featured live entertainment, a carnival, fireworks, and the festival’s signature Grande Parade.
While in Winona, Cassie connected with community leaders, festival volunteers, and attendees, riding in the Grande Parade, signing autographs, and celebrating alongside families from across the region.
Cassie’s appearance continued a longstanding Miss America tradition at Winona Steamboat Days, joining an esteemed group of titleholders who have participated in the festival over the decades, including Miss America 2025 Abbie Stockard, Miss America 2024 Madison Marsh, Miss America 2023 Grace Stanke, Miss America 2022 Emma Broyles, Miss America 2002 Katie Harman, Miss America 1977 Dorothy Benham, Miss America 1976 Tawny Godin, Miss America 1975 Shirley Cothran, Miss America 1974 Rebecca King, Miss America 1973 Terry Meeuwsen, Miss America 1972 Laurel Lea Schaefer, Miss America 1971 Phyllis George, Miss America 1952 Colleen Kay Hutchins, and Miss America 1948 Bebe Shopp.
Winona Steamboat Days is one of many stops in Miss America’s tradition of traveling to communities across the country and celebrating what makes each one unique.