Become a Queen Candidate

Miss Hutchinson 2025

Each year, the Hutchinson Jaycee Water Carnival celebration culminates with the selection of the new Miss Hutchinson and Hutchinson Princess.

Qualified candidates are young women between the ages of 17-23 who have never been married or pregnant and reside in or have parents who reside in the Hutchinson area.

Being a Queen Candidate is a great opportunity to network and potentially earn a cash scholarship to be used for educational expenses, if selected as Royalty.

NOW ACCEPTING 2025 Candidate Applications. Once your application is reviewed you will receive an application confirmation.

2025 Queen Candidate Information

If you have read the above information packet and would like to apply, click either of the buttons below.

2025 Queen Candidate Printable Application 2025 Queen Candidate Online Application

For more information contact the Water Carnival Vice Commodore:

Leah Kamrath

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 320-583-4530

The week of Water Carnival truly showcases the warmth, kindness, and spirit of the incredible community of Hutchinson, while bringing together people of all ages for an outstanding celebration. When the crown was placed on my head, I had no idea the following year would bring countless friendships and relationships, unforgettable experiences, and learning more about what makes Hutchinson so special. It was truly such a privilege to represent such a passionate and inspiring community across the state of Minnesota. Being a queen candidate, and becoming Miss Hutchinson are both life changing experiences that I’ll carry in my heart forever.

Lexie Fitzwater

2023 Royalty

Being the Hutchinson Princess gave me the opportunity to make meaningful connections both within the town of Hutchinson and from neighboring cities. It was not only a chance to meet fascinating people, but also to enjoy the experience. Candidacy week was a particular highlight of this, as well as representing Hutchinson at the Saint Paul Winter Carnival. My year was filled with fun, laughter, and smiles. Because of this, I would encourage others to participate for a chance at this amazing opportunity!

Montana Swaja

2023 Royalty

FAQ’s

How are Queen Candidates Chosen?

Candidate applications are accepted on a first come, first serve basis. Once 8 qualifying candidate applications have been received, additional applicants will be placed on a wait list in case of any withdrawals.

What are Queen Candidates judged on?

Water Carnival Queen candidates are judged on a combination of personality, attitude, intelligence and talent, as well as other intangible characteristics.

What is involved in the pageant?

During the Miss Hutchinson pageant, each candidate will participate in a formal gown competition, a question and answer session and must entertain the pageant audience for a period of 3 to 5 minutes with a presentation of talent.  Often, this talent requirement is a concern to candidates.  Have confidence!  Each of us has some talent, and keep in mind: this is only a small portion of the overall judging process.  The total you is the most important aspect!

Who are the Water Carnival Queen Candidate judges?

The Water Carnival judges are adults who do not live in Hutchinson that spend the weekend interviewing and observing the candidates along with making the final selections of Miss Hutchinson, Princess and the Talent Award.  Neither the Hutchinson Jaycees nor the Hutchinson Jaycee Water Carnival Committee have any involvement in choosing Miss Hutchinson or the Princess.

Do I have to find a business to sponsor me?

No, the Water Carnival committee secures businesses willing to sponsor queen candidates and the committee assigns each candidate a sponsor.

What are the benefits of being a Queen Candidate?

Being a Water Carnival Queen Candidate is an opportunity afforded to only eight young women each year.  Through your experience as a Queen Candidate, you will gain confidence, meet new people and enhance your public speaking skills.  You will also get the chance to learn more about the rich history of Hutchinson and become an active part of the community.

What is the scheduling commitment of a Queen Candidate?

During Water Carnival week, the Queen Candidate’s time is subject to the schedule of events set up for them by the Water Carnival Committee. Each and every contestant is required to be present at all of the planned events.  If chosen as Miss Hutchinson or Princess, you agree to represent Hutchinson at several parades and other personal appearances throughout Minnesota during your reign, through Water Carnival week. If you have specific scheduling questions, please talk to the Queens Chair or Royalty Coordinators prior to Water Carnival.