Registration for the 2026 Bandera County Fair Scholarship Pageant closed on September 19. We are so grateful to everyone who signed up and can't wait to see our contestants shine on October 3.

Here is everything you need to know about the pageant.

What Is the Bandera County Fair Pageant?

The Bandera County Fair Scholarship Pageant is a community celebration of poise, personality, and local pride. Contestants are judged not just on appearance, but on who they are — their confidence, their community involvement, and their ability to represent Bandera County with grace.

Winners will be crowned at the pageant on Saturday, October 3 at Bandera Middle School, then make their official debut at the Opening Ceremony of the Bandera County Fair on October 8 at Mansfield Park.

This is not just a pageant. It is a chance to step into a role that matters — as an ambassador for a community that is proud of its roots and excited about its future.

Age Divisions

The pageant is open to contestants across five age divisions:

Little Miss Bandera — Ages 6–9 Our youngest contestants shine in this adorable division, judged on personality and stage presence. Every little one who steps on that stage is already a winner.

Little Mr. Bandera — Ages 6–9 (New This Year!) Brand new for 2026, Little Mr. Bandera gives our youngest gentlemen a chance to show off their charm and personality. Entry fee is just $25 — half the standard rate.

Jr. Miss Bandera — Ages 10–12 A confidence-building division for girls ready to step into the spotlight. This is a wonderful first pageant experience for tweens.

Teen Miss Bandera — Ages 13–15 Young women in this division compete with an interview component, demonstrating leadership and community involvement alongside poise and personality.

Queen Miss Bandera — Ages 16–18 The flagship division. Contestants are judged on interview, poise, and community involvement. The winner represents Bandera County at regional fairs throughout the year.

Prizes & Awards

Every division winner receives a custom crown and official sash — the real deal, not a participation ribbon.

The Fair Queen (Queen Miss Bandera winner) also receives a scholarship award toward higher education, plus the honor of reigning over the 2026 Bandera County Fair and representing the county at regional events.

All participants receive a participation trophy, and runners-up receive special recognition awards. Every contestant goes home with something to be proud of.

What Judges Are Looking For

Judging criteria vary slightly by division, but across the board, judges are looking for:

• Poise and stage presence — How you carry yourself matters more than how you look.
• Personality — Be yourself. Authenticity stands out every time.
• Community involvement — Especially for Teen Miss and Queen Miss, judges want to know how you give back.
• Interview performance (Teen Miss & Queen Miss only) — A brief, friendly conversation. No trick questions.

Western wear is encouraged but not required. Attire should be age-appropriate and reflect the spirit of the fair.

How to Register

Registration is now closed as of Saturday, September 19, 2026. We look forward to seeing all of our registered contestants on pageant day!

If you have questions, reach out to Jennifer at 512-373-5766 or email [email protected].

Pageant Day Schedule

Mark your calendars: the pageant takes place at Bandera Middle School on Saturday, October 3, 2026.

• 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM — Morning judge interviews (Teen Miss & Queen Miss divisions)
• 6:00 PM — Pageant event

One week later, all crowned winners are expected at the Opening Ceremony of the Bandera County Fair on October 8 at Mansfield Park. Call time is 5–6 PM.

A Note on What This Means

Bandera County has not had a fair in nearly 40 years. Bringing it back means bringing back all the traditions that made it special — including this pageant. We are so proud of every contestant who stepped up to represent their community.

Questions? Reach out to Jennifer at 512-373-5766 or email [email protected]. We are happy to help.

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Full rules and details are available on the Pageant page. We can't wait to see you on October 3.