By Allison Peck
North Platte’s Lexi Nolda is in West Palm Beach, Florida, preparing to represent Nebraska at the Miss America competition.
Nolda was crowned Miss Nebraska 2026 on June 6 in North Platte and is now spending the next several days competing alongside representatives from across the country for the Miss America crown.
The official Miss America schedule began Aug. 28, with events continuing through Sept. 6 in West Palm Beach. Opening ceremonies are scheduled for Aug. 29, followed by a series of events and competition activities throughout the week.
Nolda has been sharing updates from her experience on social media as the contestants arrive and prepare for competition.
“This morning we received our official competition sashes,” Nolda shared. “And for a special surprise they are navy in honor of America’s 250th instead of the traditional black sash!”
The navy sashes are part of the celebration surrounding the 250th anniversary of the United States, adding a special patriotic touch to this year's competition.
As she prepares to take the stage, Nolda said she is looking forward to representing her home state.
“Cannot wait to show the country what Nebraska is made of!” she wrote in another social media post.
The Miss America preliminary competition is scheduled for Sept. 2, with the final competition set for 7 p.m. Sept. 6 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center. The winner will be crowned the 99th Miss America.
For Nolda, the national competition is the next chapter in a journey that began on a stage in her hometown. Now, she will have the opportunity to show the rest of the country what Nebraska is made of.
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