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Henry County Fair Queen Contest returns with record numbers
Record number of contestants, new workshops, and returning tradition mark this year’s Henry County Fair Queen Contest
Southeast Iowa Union offers audio versions of articles using Instaread. Some words may be mispronounced.
MT. PLEASANT — The Henry County Fair Queen Contest is back for its third year under the direction of sisters Kelsey DeWitt, Kirsten Smith, and Kenna Smith — and it’s shaping up to be the biggest yet.
The 2025 contest, which takes place Wednesday, July 16 at 7:30 p.m. under the Wright Pavilion, has already drawn a record 29 contestants between the ages of 8 and 21. That’s the highest participation the contest has seen since the Smith sisters took over in 2023.
“We hope this helps all of our contestants feel comfortable and confident getting on the stage the night of crowning,” the coordinators shared in an email. “Our goal is to help them gain skills they can take with them outside of this contest and apply to their daily activities.”
That message of personal growth is more than words. This year, the contest is partnering with local organizations to offer interactive workshops focused on leadership, confidence, and youth empowerment — a new initiative that builds on the sisters’ goal to make the contest an enriching experience beyond the stage.
The event is divided into three age categories:
Princess (ages 8—11): Interview and party attire
Junior Queen (12—15): Interview, casual wear, and party attire
Queen (16—21): Interview, casual wear, evening wear, and an onstage question
A panel of three judges will select a Princess, Junior Queen, and Fair Queen for 2025, along with runners-up in each division. In addition, Queen contestants will vote among themselves to crown one participant Miss Personality Plus, a peer-selected award that recognizes kindness, leadership, and positivity.
While this year’s contest continues to grow, last year’s royalty left their mark. Lily Syfert, then 16 and from Salem, was crowned the 2024 Henry County Fair Queen and went on to represent Henry County at the Iowa State Fair. She was also selected by her fellow Queen contestants as Miss Personality Plus, marking a standout year for the young leader.
The 2024 court also included Beatrice Anderson crowned Junior Queen and Leah Anderson crowned Princess.
As the contest continues to evolve, the community’s support remains strong. The coordinators thanked presenting sponsor Hometown Veterinary Care and other local sponsors for making the contest possible.
With more contestants, fresh programming, and the same focus on confidence and community, this year’s Henry County Fair Queen Contest promises to be a can’t-miss celebration of local talent and leadership.
Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com
