Kinsley McElwain Earns 2026 Little Miss Firecracker Crown

Ellwood City’s annual tradition of the Little Miss Firecracker Pageant was a huge success on Friday, July 3rd.

The pageant started at 11:00 am after the raising of the flag at the Ellwood City Arts Crafts and Food Festival. The girls weathered through the heat and displayed so much talent and charisma, the judges had a hard time choosing the winners.

Out of 16 participants, the winners were:

1st place and the winner of Little Miss Firecracker 2026 is 8-year-old Kinsley McElwain (parents Cody & Goldie McElwain) as she charmed the judges with her personality and cheer with her patriotic ensemble that included her red white and blue Pom Pom’s and silver glitter fringe cowgirl boots.

The second Place winner and first runner-up is 8-year-old Ella Fauzey (parents Jonathan & Claire Fauzey) who wowed the judges by playing “God Bless America” on the piano for the audience.

The 3rd place winner and winner of the patriotic spirit award is 8-year-old Myla Blinn (parents Matt & Patsy Blinn) as she rocked the stage wearing full red white and blue fringe and cowgirl hat and was able to showcase her amazing spelling skills on stage for all to enjoy!

The pageant had a guest appearance from last years winner, Miss Alexandria Smith, and she was there helping on stage and crowning this years winner. The LMF Committee would like to thank Blocher Jewelers for donating the crown and Posies by Patti for the beautiful bouquet donation.