Preparations are underway for the 73rd anniversary of the Miss Minden pageant as organizers continue planning events tied to the upcoming Mardi Gras Fasching season in downtown Minden.
Registration for the Miss Minden and Miss Spirit of Fasching pageant has closed, with contestant biographies expected to be released soon. The pageant is part of a long-running local tradition that has crowned young women from the community for more than seven decades.
While Miss Minden registration has ended, registration remains open for Little Miss Minden divisions. Organizers recently announced that residency restrictions have been removed, allowing participants from outside Webster Parish to compete.
Little Miss Minden titles are open to girls ages 0 to 18 and do not advance to Miss Louisiana competition. The pageant is described as a natural pageant, with judging based on natural beauty rather than glitz. For more information, contact the Young Women’s Service Club of Minden.
In addition, the Miss Heart of Minden title is available for girls ages 15 to 18. Contestants in this division compete only in formal wear. The winner will receive a $250 cash prize and is expected to attend YWSC events throughout the year while representing the YWSC of Minden.
Organizers are also inviting former Miss Minden queens to return to the stage for a special recognition event scheduled for January 17, 2026, celebrating past titleholders and the pageant’s legacy.
The Miss Minden pageant activities coincide with broader Fasching festivities planned by the Minden Main Street District. The Minden Mardi Gras Fasching Parade is scheduled for January 31, 2026, in downtown Minden. Float registration for the parade is currently open to businesses, organizations and community groups. Contact Minden Main Street District for more information.
Now in its 73rd year, the Miss Minden pageant remains a highly anticipated community tradition, bringing together participants, past queens and residents to celebrate local pride while helping kick off Minden’s Fasching and Mardi Gras season.