The 2026 Strawberry Fest Queen Pageant was held at the Lincoln High School Auditorium, kicking off a weekend of fun for the Alma Center Lions Club Strawberry Festival.
Mary Gerdes served as emcee for the evening. Several visiting royalty were on hand to take part in the festivities, including representatives from Miss Jackson County, Miss Black River Falls, Karner Blue, Miss Neillsville, Miss Ettrick, Blair Cheese Fest and Warrens Cranberry Fest.
Competing for the title of Strawberry Princess were candidates Sophia Deal and Bailee Miller.
Candidates for the 2026 Strawberry Queen title included Emily Janick, Marlee Winchell, Chelsea LaBar and Aleah Schmidt.
At the conclusion of the evening, the new Strawberry Queen Court was crowned. Sophia Deal was named Strawberry Princess, Aleah Schmidt was named Miss Congeniality, Chelsea LaBar was selected as Second Attendant, Emily Janick was named First Attendant, and Marlee Winchell was crowned the 2026 Alma Center Lions Club Strawberry Festival Queen.
Flowers and corsages for the event were donated by Jean Gaede, in memory of her husband, Lion Jim Gaede.
The outgoing royalty court was also recognized during the event. Members of the court included Miss Congeniality Alex Forsting, Second Attendant Ava Hoffman, First Attendant Jacqueline Gill and Queen Isla Gjerseth.
The evening also featured a special tribute to Lion Ken Forsting for his years of service to the Strawberry Festival Queen Program.
“After 39 years of dedication, leadership and countless hours of service, we would like to recognize Lion Ken Forsting for his incredible commitment to the Strawberry Festival Queen Program,” organizers said. “His passion, guidance and support have helped shape generations of queens and princesses while creating memories that will last a lifetime. We are grateful for everything he has done for our community and wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.”
Kristina Staszak was also recognized and thanked for stepping into a leadership role with the pageant. She will play a vital part in the Strawberry Festival Queen Pageant moving forward, carrying on a cherished community tradition.
The pageant marked the beginning of another festive weekend celebrating community, tradition and the annual Alma Center Lions Club Strawberry Festival. Organizers extended their congratulations to the newly crowned court and wished them an enjoyable and memorable year representing the festival and the Alma Center community.