Become a Queen Candidate

Miss Hutchinson 2026

Each year, the Hutchinson Jaycee Water Carnival celebration culminates with the selection of the new Miss Hutchinson and Hutchinson Princess.

Qualified candidates are young women between the ages of 17-23 who have never been married or pregnant and reside in or have parents who reside in the Hutchinson area.

Being a Queen Candidate is a great opportunity to network and potentially earn a cash scholarship to be used for educational expenses, if selected as Royalty.

NOW ACCEPTING 2026 Candidate Applications. Once your application is reviewed you will receive an application confirmation.

2026 Queen Candidate Information

If you have read the above information packet and would like to apply, click either of the buttons below.

2026 Queen Candidate Printable Application 2026 Queen Candidate Online Application

For more information contact the Water Carnival Vice Commodore:

Anna Rasmussen Johnson

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 320-420-6656

Serving as Miss Hutchinson has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. The week of Water Carnival and the year that followed allowed me to truly see the heart of this community. Being one of many candidates was a rewarding experience in itself, offering opportunities to grow, form connections, and celebrate Hutchinson alongside an incredible group of individuals. What began as a single week grew into a year filled with lasting friendships, personal growth, and countless opportunities to connect with people of all ages. Representing Hutchinson has been an incredible honor. This experience has shaped me in ways I will carry with me forever.

Audrey Hanson

2025 Miss Hutchinson

What a joy it is to represent Hutchinson through Water Carnival! This town has always held a special place in my heart, but this experience has allowed me to see it in such a new light. I have made lifelong connections and relationships with the people who fill our community and make it a beautiful place to live. I have gained mentors to look up to and created friendships to last a lifetime. Water carnival week is full of sweet traditions and so many fun experiences, being a candidate gives you a front row seat to the joy in celebrating Hutchinson. Being a candidate and running alongside amazing individuals is so inspiring as every person brings a gift to the group. I wouldn’t trade this experience for the world, and I feel so grateful that it will always be a meaningful chapter in my life.

Maddie Hoffman

2025 Hutchinson Princess

FAQ’s

How are Queen Candidates Chosen?

Candidate applications are accepted on a first come, first serve basis. Once 8 qualifying candidate applications have been received, additional applicants will be placed on a wait list in case of any withdrawals.

What are Queen Candidates judged on?

Water Carnival Queen candidates are judged on a combination of personality, attitude, intelligence and talent, as well as other intangible characteristics.

What is involved in the pageant?

During the Miss Hutchinson pageant, each candidate will participate in a formal gown competition, a question and answer session and must entertain the pageant audience for a period of 3 to 5 minutes with a presentation of talent.  Often, this talent requirement is a concern to candidates.  Have confidence!  Each of us has some talent, and keep in mind: this is only a small portion of the overall judging process.  The total you is the most important aspect!

Who are the Water Carnival Queen Candidate judges?

The Water Carnival judges are adults who do not live in Hutchinson that spend the weekend interviewing and observing the candidates along with making the final selections of Miss Hutchinson, Princess and the Talent Award.  Neither the Hutchinson Jaycees nor the Hutchinson Jaycee Water Carnival Committee have any involvement in choosing Miss Hutchinson or the Princess.

Do I have to find a business to sponsor me?

No, the Water Carnival committee secures businesses willing to sponsor queen candidates and the committee assigns each candidate a sponsor.

What are the benefits of being a Queen Candidate?

Being a Water Carnival Queen Candidate is an opportunity afforded to only eight young women each year.  Through your experience as a Queen Candidate, you will gain confidence, meet new people and enhance your public speaking skills.  You will also get the chance to learn more about the rich history of Hutchinson and become an active part of the community.

What is the scheduling commitment of a Queen Candidate?

During Water Carnival week, the Queen Candidate’s time is subject to the schedule of events set up for them by the Water Carnival Committee. Each and every contestant is required to be present at all of the planned events.  If chosen as Miss Hutchinson or Princess, you agree to represent Hutchinson at several parades and other personal appearances throughout Minnesota during your reign, through Water Carnival week. If you have specific scheduling questions, please talk to Vice Commodore Anna Rasmussen Johnson – [email protected] (320)420-6656 prior to Water Carnival.