By: Skylar Shepard
May 7, 2026
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — Miss America is headed to West Palm Beach.
For the first time in the pageant’s 105-year history, the iconic competition will take center stage in South Florida, with West Palm Beach named the new host city for the 2026 Miss America Competition.
The Miss America Organization announced Thursday that the event will run from Aug. 28 through Sept. 6, bringing contestants, families, fans, and national attention to Palm Beach County for more than a week of events culminating in the crowning of the 99th Miss America.
Key portions of the competition will be held at several marquee venues across the city and the surrounding area. The Palm Beach County Convention Center will serve as the main hub, welcoming delegates from across the country for official competition events. Preliminary rounds and the Miss America’s Teen final will take place at the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, with additional activities hosted at the Hilton West Palm Beach.
Organizers say the move marks a defining moment for the organization as it continues what it calls a new era focused on leadership, service, and opportunity for women.
“It feels especially meaningful to announce this powerful next step for Miss America,” said Robin Fleming, CEO of the Miss America Organization, who described The Palm Beaches as a destination that reflects growth, ambition, and possibility.
Local leaders also welcomed the announcement, pointing to the economic and cultural boost expected from hosting a nationally recognized event. Milton Segarra, president and CEO of Discover The Palm Beaches, said the competition highlights Palm Beach County’s ability to stage world-class events while attracting visitors from across the country
As excitement builds, some residents are already thinking about what an influx of visitors could mean for traffic, parking and crowds across downtown West Palm Beach.
The 2026 competition carries added significance as the organization celebrates its 105th anniversary. Events will build toward the Sept. 6 finale, when one contestant will leave West Palm Beach wearing the Miss America crown.
Hotel reservations, ticket information, and competition programming are now available through the Miss America Organization, with additional details expected in the coming months.
As preparations begin, West Palm Beach is set to step into the national spotlight — adding a new chapter to the Miss America legacy.
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