Nine new queens to be crowned at Fire Ant Festival Pageant March 14 in Ashburn

ASHBURN, Ga. – The spotlight will shine on local royalty Saturday, March 14, as the 2026 Fire Ant Festival Pageant crowns nine new queens at the Turner County Civic Center in Ashburn.

The pageant serves as a kickoff to this year’s Fire Ant Festival, with newly crowned queens representing the community during the 30th annual celebration set for Friday and Saturday, March 27-28. The 2026 festival theme, “Fire Ant Freedom,” honors 250 years of American independence. The festival is traditionally held the fourth weekend in March.

Contestants ranging from babies to young adults will compete in age divisions from Baby (0-23 months) through Miss (19-24). The competition is a natural pageant for ages 0-9, with participants wearing Sunday best attire and no makeup, spray tans, or artificial hair allowed. Contestants ages 10 and older may compete in formal or pageant wear with age-appropriate styling.

Each division will crown a queen and award two runner-ups. Every contestant receives a tiara and T-shirt, while queens earn a crown, sash, and trophy. Special awards including Best Smile, Best Hair, and Best Dress are included in the entry fee and presented in each division.

The entry fee is $125, with a $200 sister discount. The deadline to enter is March 10. Admission for spectators is $10 per person, with children ages 3 and under admitted free. Contestants are admitted at no charge.

In addition to division titles, an overall People’s Choice Queen will be selected by audience vote during the event. Votes are $1 each and may be placed in designated containers in the lobby. Participation in the People’s Choice competition is optional.

For registration details, full rules, sponsorship information, or additional pageant information, visit the Fire Ant Festival website or contact organizers at info@fireantfestival.com.

Copyright 2026 South Georgia News. All rights reserved.