PAGEANT CATEGORIES: AREAS OF COMPETITION
Monarch delegates are scored by five (5) judges in seven (7) areas of competition for a total score out of 600 points.
The first three (3) areas of competition are done before the live event, and the remaining four (4) are done in-person at the event.
1) Impact Statement
Before the live event. 25 pts.
This is a 1-2 minute recorded video for you to introduce yourself and speak about your state, a cause close to your heart, your passion for conservation, and how Monarch will help elevate you and your platform. It does not need to be done in a single take - just speak openly! Feel free to dress up as your mersona, or simply business casual.
2) Photos
Before the event. 50 pts.
You will submit up to five (5) photos of yourself in or out of tail. One (1) should be a headshot and two (2) must be underwater. They do not have to be professional, but should be good quality, high resolution, and you should be the focus of the photo.
3) Bio
Before the event. 25 pts.
Your personal bio consisting of five (5) questions will help you and the judges to prep for your interview. The questions you are asked by the judges during your interview will be based on what you write here, so only include info about yourself that you're comfortable talking about with our judges in-person. The judges are looking for good grammar and complete sentences as much as they are looking for substance.
4) Interviews
In-person. 150 pts.
There will be a five (5) minute, in-person, one-on-one interviews with each of the judges in a "speed dating" style. Each judge will have a station, and the delegates will go around to each judge. They will ask you questions based on your Personal Bio. The dress code for this is business glamour/formal professional.
5) Sustainable Costume Showcase
In-person. 125 pts.
You will bring and model a sustainable costume that you've created at home. It can be something upcycled, recycled, rescued materials like cardboard, etc. We are looking for creativity and thoughtfulness toward the environment. Using local materials or items that tell a story is a bonus. This year, we will also be sending each delegate a secret item to incorporate into their look.
6) Formalwear
In-person. 175 pts.
The formal evening wear portion is what you'll present yourself in at the crowning and awards ceremony on Friday night. The 2026 theme is "Wicked Sirens and Bubbly Mermaids." You can re-wear your sustainable creation, an evening gown/ballgown/tux, or a costume as long as it represents the theme. The delegates are scored on their confidence and comfort in their outfit, and how they own the stage. Be sure to make eye contact with the judges and the audience as you flaunt your stuff.
7) On-Stage Question
In-person. 50 pts.
This is for finalists only. You will be asked a question pertaining to what winning would mean to you, or how you will use the crown to support your platform. This is an opportunity to educate the audience on your cause.
The answer should be no longer than one (1) minute. This category can be used to help break ties. While this category is only 50 points, it can make a big impact on separating the highest scores.