7 Reasons Why Titleholders Should Attend Local Pageants

One of the hallmarks of the Miss America Organization are local pageants. To be eligible to compete in your state competition, you must first compete and win a 'local' title. Once you attain a local title, attending other 'locals' is a great way to kick off your year. In fact, there are several very good reasons to attend local pageants.

7 Reasons Why Titleholders Should Attend Local Pageants

By Kathryn Kueppers

1. INTRODUCES YOU TO YOUR STATE.
​I have had so many adventures traveling the state to attend local pageants! You learn some pretty random history at small town diners, and you get to know the state you come from and that you one day may represent.

2. PROVIDES THE OPPORTUNITY TO MEET THE WOMEN YOU WILL COMPETE WITH.
​Going to local pageants promotes camaraderie among competitors. It helps foster friendships before you even get to your state orientation weekend. Also, it means a lot to the girls competing when they see you took the time to show your support.

​3. PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES TO RECRUIT.
​Any time you wear your crown is a recruitment opportunity. There are always little girls and young women at local pageants, whether they are there to support a contestant or to learn more about the program. You are a representative of MISS AMERICA and you have the ability to encourage these people to get involved. Why not take this chance?

4. PROVIDES MORAL SUPPORT.
​The volunteers who pour their hearts into this program are what make Miss America tick. Attending local pageants supports these dedicated individuals. They love it when titleholders come to see their program.

5. PROVIDES OPPORTUNITIES TO PRACTICE YOUR 'LOOK.'
​Each local is a chance to get dressed up and go out. This becomes helpful because you learn what looks best on you and also what you are most comfortable in. Plus, you get good at getting ready quickly.

6. YOU WILL GET TO KNOW YOUR AWESOME STATE TITLEHOLDER.
More often than not, our Miss Minnesota makes an official appearance at every local pageant. She speaks about her platform, the Miss America Organization, and performs her talent. Attending local pageants gives you more opportunities to meet your state representative and get to know her better. After all, you would like to have her job someday. 

​7.  IT'S PART OF THE EXPERIENCE.
​The local level is the first step and the heart and soul of the Miss America experience. Just think, by attending local pageants, you could be meeting, or actually be, the next Miss America. Remember this: the journey to Miss America begins on a small stage somewhere with a local pageant.