Merced’s Rising Stars Program

The mission of the Merced’s Rising Stars Program is to mentor young girls ages 6-12. This program is a non-competitive, fundraising mentorship program supporting the Miss Merced County Scholarship Program that allows girls to experience the world of Miss America before they are old enough to compete. Our Rising Stars will meet and practice alongside our Miss and Teen titleholders, and learn the five points of the crown, make new friends, gain manners, confidence, and attain several fun and valuable life skills. Rising Stars will perform a special dance number on the night of the Miss Merced competition and will have their crowning moment on stage.

• Requirements:

  • Rising Stars must live in the counties of Merced, Mariposa, or Stanislaus

  • Rising Stars can not be older than 12 years of age by the time our pageant is held otherwise they would be eligible for our teen program

• Example of events:

  • Parades, tea parties, painting and crafts, yoga and other fun activities
    

• Registration in the program includes:

  • Official sash and tiara from the Miss America Organization

  • Participation on-stage in the Rising Stars opening number, on-stage question, and crowning at our local competition

  • One general admission ticket at our local competition (additional tickets may be purchased)

  • Special events throughout the year with our Misses and Teens.

• Rehearsal schedule and what to wear:

  • Our rehearsals will tentatively take place in November and December
    

• Cost:

  • The cost is $250 per Rising Star. This program is restricted to the first 10 Rising Stars. A parent orientation will be scheduled before any required registration fees are due.

  • Registration deadline October 31, 2026.

Little Miss Registration Form