The first night of the 2026 Blossomtime Pageants is complete, with Mr. Blossomtime crowned and community queens taking the stage for the annual Showcase of Queens.
The event was held Sunday evening at the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Jenkins Theater, where contestants were judged on poise, communication, community service, and stage presence. Representing St. Joseph, Dominick Lignell was named Mr. Blossomtime 2026, with Beau Kirtdoll of Niles as first runner-up and Antonio Jordan of Berrien Springs as second runner-up. Giovanni Ayala of Watervliet received the Mr. Nice Guy honor.
Additional awards in the men’s competition included modeling honors for Jayden of Benton Harbor, Antonio of Berrien Springs, and Beau of Niles, along with photogenic awards for Jayden of Benton Harbor, Nolan of St. Joseph, and Cole of Stevensville.
The evening also featured the Showcase of Queens, highlighting more than 20 community representatives competing for Miss Blossomtime. Among the early award winners, photogenic honors went to Miss Spirit Mya, Miss Eau Claire Sodus Dowagiac Taylor, and Miss Buchanan Justyce. Modeling awards were presented to Miss Niles Kennedy, Miss Hartford Briana, and Miss Bridgman Kate, while commercial winners included Miss Spirit Mya, Miss Hartford Briana, and Miss Niles Kennedy.
The competition continues Monday night with the Miss Blossomtime Pageant, beginning at 7 p.m. The event will be broadcast live on News Talk Sports 94.9 WSJM and COSY Classic Hits 103.7, with a live stream available at wsjm.com and wcsy.com.
