Leading trans beauty pageant announces move from Las Vegas to Atlantic City for 2026

The organizers of the Miss International Queen USA (MIQ-USA) pageant, one of the largest such competitions in the country, have announced that it’s relocating for 2026.

MIQ-USA, a pageant for trans women, has previously taken place in Las Vegas. The 2026 edition will take place in Atlantic City from March 26–27.

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Part of the reason for the move is to be closer to Philadelphia, New York, and Washington, D.C. All three districts are home to sizable trans communities.

MIQ-USA is a preliminary competition for the international Miss International Queen pageant, which is held annually in Thailand. Last year’s MIQ-USA was won by Midori Monet, who went on to win the contest in Thailand. She became only the third USA contestant to do so.

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Speaking to GayCities about winning the title, Monet, a Seattle-based entertainer and community leader, said, “The moment my name was announced, time seemed to stand still.

“In that instant, I thought about every late night of preparation, every moment of doubt, and every person who believed in me along the way.” She says she felt, “an overwhelming sense of gratitude and pride—not just for myself, but for every trans woman who has ever been told she was ‘too much’ or ‘not enough.’

“I brought heart and purpose to every step of the competition, showing up unapologetically as my true self,” Monet continued.

“I believe the judges could feel my passion, my story, and my commitment to using this platform for more than beauty or fashion. As a Black woman of trans experience, I felt a deep responsibility to amplify the importance of mental health, especially the power of self-care and self-love.”

Monet will return to MIQ-USA in Atlantic City to crown the 2026 winner.

Two days of trans celebration and joy

“MIQ-USA is more than a competition,” says Todd Montgomery of Be The Transformational Change Fund, the nonprofit producing the event. “It is a celebration of life, community, and progress that is sure to inspire and spread joy to the thousands in attendance.”

MIQ-USA festivities begin Thursday, March 26, with a press conference and the traditional Sashing Ceremony. This is when contestants are officially introduced to the public.

In the evening, the State Costumer competition and Talent competition will take place at Harrah’s Atlantic City. This is followed by a day or workshops on Friday 27 March, followed by the pageant finals in the evening.

Individual tickets and discounted all-event passes are available at Bethetransformationalchange.org/miq-usa-tickets.

This year’s contestants have all been selected. However, anyone interested in entering the 2027 event can apply at bethetransformationalchange.org.

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