Wapello’s own Lydia Fisher is set to compete for the crown of Miss America later this week in Orlando, carrying with her both hometown pride and pageant history.
Fisher was crowned Miss Iowa in June, marking the pinnacle of a 15-year pageant journey. She became the first contestant in state history to win all four divisions of the Iowa pageant system—earning titles as L’il Miss Iowa in 2010, Junior Miss in 2014, Teen Miss in 2017, and now Miss Iowa 2025.
The Miss America competition runs September 2–7, with the national finals scheduled for Sunday evening. To support their hometown representative, Wapello High School will host a public watch party. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., with the event beginning at 6 p.m.
For many in Wapello, Fisher’s achievements represent not only her own hard work but also a source of pride for the community. As she takes the national stage, her hometown will be cheering every step of the way. You can watch the Miss America 2026 finals for free on the official Miss America YouTube Channel (@missamericaofficial) and on PageantVision.com. The pageant will not be broadcast on traditional television this year.