DES MOINES — Belle Werner of Tama County was crowned the 2026 Iowa State Fair Queen Saturday evening on the Anne and Bill Riley Stage, selected from a field of 103 contestants who advanced from county-level competitions across the state.
Selection and awards
The coronation, presented by Nature Hill with Spirulux and sponsored by Pepsi with media sponsor iHeart Radio, concluded the competitive process that evaluates contestants on a variety of qualities. According to the State Fair, judges assessed candidates on personality, attitude, awareness, leadership, citizenship, contributions to the community, overall appearance, charm and poise.
Werner, the daughter of Eric and Michele Werner, will serve as the fair’s official ambassador for the coming year and received several scholarships and prizes as part of her new role. First and second runners-up and other court members also received scholarships, gift cards and recognition awards.
Royal Court and special recognitions
The final standings for the 2026 Royal Court were:
- Queen: Belle Werner (Tama County)
- First runner-up: Jillian Dammann (Page County)
- Second runner-up: Jillian Hanson (Benton County)
- Third runner-up: Eliza Schmidt (Dallas County)
Special awards announced during the ceremony included:
- Outstanding Leadership Award: Brigid Bonner (Crawford County)
- Personality Plus Award: Anita Marie Scholten (Warren County)
- Queen Alumni Award (in honor of Julie Wolterman): Allison Gruntmeir (Lee County)
Scholarships and prizes
In addition to the crown, sash and trophy, the new queen receives monetary support and other gifts intended to help with education and official duties. The Iowa State Fair announced the following principal awards for the top placements and special honorees.
| Placement / Award | Scholarship | Gift card / Additional prize |
|---|---|---|
| Queen (Belle Werner) | $3,000 from the Iowa State Fair | $1,000 scholarship from Dawghouse Concessions; floral bouquet from Boesen the Florist; $600 gift card; necklace from the Iowa State Fair; Iowa State Fair Brick from the Blue Ribbon Foundation |
| First runner-up (Jillian Dammann) | $1,500 | $300 gift card |
| Second runner-up (Jillian Hanson) | $1,000 | $250 gift card |
| Third runner-up (Eliza Schmidt) | $500 | $200 gift card |
| Outstanding Leadership (Brigid Bonner) | $800 | $250 gift card |
| Personality Plus (Anita Marie Scholten) | $500 | $200 gift card |
| Queen Alumni Award (Allison Gruntmeir) | $500 from the Iowa State Fair Queen Alumni | Plaque from the Iowa State Fair |
All members of the Royal Court were given a plaque by the State Fair and floral bouquets from Boesen the Florist.
Role and community impact
The Iowa State Fair Queen traditionally serves as a statewide ambassador, appearing at events, promoting fair programs and engaging with agricultural and youth organizations. Scholarship awards are part of the pageant’s long-standing effort to support contestants’ educational pursuits while recognizing leadership and public service.
The competition began at the county level, where local winners advanced to represent their communities at the State Fair. This year’s field included 103 contestants representing counties across Iowa, underscoring the reach of the program and its role in spotlighting young leaders from small towns and rural areas.
By awarding scholarships alongside honors, the State Fair aims to provide tangible support for contestants planning further education while also celebrating their civic involvement and community contributions.
Looking ahead
As queen, Belle Werner will carry the title and responsibilities for the next year. She will join past queens and alumni who frequently take part in fair activities and statewide events. The court’s presence at public functions offers outreach opportunities for community organizations and the fair itself.
Details about the State Fair Queen program, future appearances by the 2026 Royal Court, and how county winners are selected are available through the Iowa State Fair’s official channels.
— Meredith Kowalski, State Correspondent
