The Miss Alabama 2026 pageant is underway, and the preliminary round on Wednesday night showcased the talent and evening wear of 45 women vying for the state title. The event, held at Samford University's Wright Center in Birmingham, featured a diverse range of performances and initiatives, with three contestants standing out for their exceptional skills and community involvement.
One of the standout performers was Mikella Anderson, Miss Lake Guntersville, who captivated the audience with her contemporary dance routine to "God Bless America". Anderson, a 22-year-old business management student at Auburn University, is also dedicated to her community service initiative, Color for a Cure: A Beautiful End to Diabetes. Her passion for dance and commitment to making a positive impact in her community make her a strong contender for the crown.
Another impressive performer was Chloe Yates, Miss Gardendale Magnolia, who showcased her gymnastics skills to "Welcome to the Moulin Rouge". Yates, a 22-year-old interior design student at the University of Alabama, is also dedicated to her community service initiative, Special Olympics – Deleting the "Dis" in Disabled. Her energy and dedication to her craft, as well as her commitment to making a difference in her community, make her a strong competitor.
The evening wear competition was won by Ruby Tilghman, Miss Birmingham, who impressed the judges with her elegant and sophisticated look. Tilghman, a 22-year-old chemistry student at the University of Alabama with a minor in social innovation and leadership, is also dedicated to her community service initiative, 57 Miles: Answering the Needs of Your Community. Her intelligence, poise, and commitment to making a positive impact in her community make her a strong contender for the title.
The preliminary round also featured production numbers performed by Miss Alabama 2025, country singer Charity Bowden, Miss Alabama 2012 Anna Laura Strider, and this year's contestants. The event was emceed by Miss Alabama 2016, Hayley Barber DeShazo, and featured a panel of judges, including Yolande Dolly Fox, Ashley Halfman, Dr. Caroline Reich, Michelle Parham Rudolph, and David Weincek.
The Miss Alabama 2026 competition will continue with preliminary events on Thursday and Friday, with the finals scheduled for Saturday, June 6. The public can vote for their favorite contestants in the People's Choice Contest, with each vote costing $1. The contestant with the most votes will earn a spot among the top 13 finalists on Saturday.
The pageant is not just about the competition, but also about the opportunity for the contestants to showcase their talents, community service initiatives, and personal growth. The event is a celebration of the women of Alabama, and a chance for the public to support and encourage these young women as they strive to make a positive impact in their communities.
In my opinion, the Miss Alabama 2026 pageant is a fascinating showcase of talent, beauty, and community service. The preliminary round on Wednesday night was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the contestants, and I am excited to see how the competition unfolds in the coming days. The pageant is a reminder that beauty is not just skin-deep, but also about the heart and mind of the woman behind the crown.
