About The Event:

CROWNED is back, and this time, we're turning it up!

Returning for 2026, this playful, over-the-top tribute to the beauty pageant tradition brings more sparkle, louder cheers, and the same delightful lack of rules that made the inaugural CROWNED an unforgettable night.

Hosted by the hilarious and wildly talented Meatball, this all-gender competition features 10 contestants vying for the crown across three iconic categories: Runway Presentation, Q&A, and Talent. It's a little bit classic pageantry, a little bit chaotic fun, and a whole lot of heart.

A dazzling panel of celebrity judges will score the contestants and bring their own sparkle to the stage — including RuPaul's Drag Race stars Willam, DiDa Ritz, and Irene the Alien, HBO's Somebody Somewhere and Revry's King of Drag Host, Murray Hill and making a triumphant return all the way from Anchorage, Alaska, the winner of CROWNED 2025, your current reigning Crowned Jewel of Chicago, Athena Nuff. The audience gets in on the action too, with the chance to vote for Fan Favorite by donating to their favorite contestant's fundraising page. Because beneath all the sequins and show-stopping moments, CROWNED is a fundraiser supporting the vital work of LGBTQIA+ organizations throughout the Chicagoland area.

Whether you're here to cheer on a friend, celebrate queer joy, or simply enjoy a night that refuses to take itself too seriously, CROWNED 2026 promises a show packed with camp, charisma, and community spirit.

VIP Ticket Holders get early access entry starting at 5:45 PM with exclusive meet & greet with the full judges panel and host from 6–7 PM. Doors open at 6:30 PM for General Admission Ticket Holders with the pageant kicking off at 7 PM, and the party doesn't stop there. Join us at Roscoe's starting at 10:30 PM for the official after party, featuring live performances by our judges and host!

Thank You to Our Sponsors:

CROWNED 2026 wouldn't be possible without the generous support of our sponsors.

Presenting Sponsor

Roscoe's Tavern: One of Chicago's most beloved LGBTQ+ institutions, Roscoe's has been a cornerstone of Chicago's Northalsted neighborhood since 1987. With multiple bars, a dance floor, and a patio, it's the perfect home for the CROWNED after party.

Category Sponsor

Men's Room: Gay-owned and operated, Men's Room is Chicago's premier Northalsted destination for men's fashion, fetish gear, grooming products, and a full-service barbershop. A neighborhood institution that's been part of the community since 2016.

Raygun: Self-proclaimed "the gayest store in the universe," Raygun is a Midwest staple for union-printed t-shirts, gifts, and unapologetically bold designs. Find them in Chicago and across the Midwest.

Community Sponsors

Alliance Illinois: The Illinois chapter of the LGBTQ+ Real Estate Alliance, the leading national advocate for eliminating housing discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity, connecting LGBTQ+ buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals.

Dispensary 33: Chicago's first cannabis dispensary, now 100% employee-owned, rooted in community and committed to making cannabis culture welcoming for everyone.

Foursided: Chicago's one-of-a-kind boutique for custom framing, vintage finds, and indie-designed cards and gifts, proudly supporting BIPOC, women, and LGBTQIA+ makers.

SWAY: Illinois' first queer- and BIPOC-owned cannabis dispensary, rooted in the history of LGBTQ+ activism and cannabis equity. A come-as-you-are destination on Northalsted, built for and by the community.

Official Hospitality Partner

Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace: A boutique hotel nestled in Chicago's Lakeview East neighborhood, just steps from the action.

About Stonewall Sports Chicago:

Stonewall Sports Chicago is a volunteer-led nonprofit that creates inclusive spaces for LGBTQIA+ individuals through low-cost recreational sports leagues and community events. As part of the national Stonewall Sports network, our mission is to foster connections, promote wellness, and give back to organizations that serve and uplift our community.

Since 2014, we have grown to over 2,500 active members and donated more than $900,000 to LGBTQIA+ causes in the Chicagoland area.

2026 Crowned

Stonewall Sports Chicago's All-Gender Pageant Fundraiser

Team Members