Miss USA Hopefuls Break Down Their Wildest Pre-Pageant Rituals and Superstitions (Exclusive)

As the countdown begins for the highly anticipated Miss USA pageant, 51 contenders from across the United States, as well as the District of Columbia, are sharing their unique pre-competition customs. With the event marking its 75th anniversary, the excitement is palpable, and many contestants have revealed the superstitions and rituals that they rely on to bolster their confidence before taking to the stage in Miami.

Among those preparing for the spotlight is Amber Uhler, Miss Michigan USA. Uhler’s journey to the pageant stage is deeply personal, having previously battled with her weight. Now, as a transformed woman who has lost 170 pounds, she incorporates a moment of reflection into her routine. “Before I walk on stage, I look through old photos on my phone,” Uhler explains. “That moment of gratitude replaces my nerves with confidence and reminds me that this journey is about so much more than a crown.”

Olivia Lulich, representing Wisconsin, holds a firm belief in the power of silence when it comes to discussing outcomes. “My family has a superstition of never talking about the chance of winning,” she shares, emphasising that they don’t discuss potential victories to avoid jinxing their chances. She also embraces a colourful tradition from her agricultural background, donning purple on show days, as this hue signifies triumph in livestock competitions.

Emily Lenser, Miss Nebraska USA, adheres to a holistic approach to her pre-pageant mindset. Her routine features an assortment of good luck charms, a moment of prayer for her late grandparents, and a heartfelt hug from her mother. “These rituals bring comfort and positivity as I prepare for the events,” she reveals.

Kaitlyn Humphrey, representing Arizona, opts for music as part of her grounding technique in the days leading up to the pageant. Her diverse playlist, spanning genres from hip-hop to Broadway, serves to keep her focused and right-minded during the intense preparations. Humourously, she notes the critical role music plays in her competition strategy.

Madilynn Becker, who stepped into the pageant world at a young age, recalls a unique superstition from her childhood: the necessity of her mother buckling her shoes. “I thought it would influence how well I performed,” she says, reflecting on how those early beliefs shaped her early experiences in pageantry.

For Kayshauna Montaño, the culinary aspect cannot be overlooked. A former cheerleader for the New England Patriots, she insists on indulging in Sour Strips, a tangy candy she believes brings her luck. “I like to think they help me, whether it’s superstition or simply an excuse to eat something sweet,” Montano admits with a grin.

Holly Huber from Alaska deploys a thoughtful ritual of writing two letters to herself: one for a potential victory and another for a loss. She finds solace in this practice, stating, “Regardless of the outcome, hearing from myself is often the most comforting, as it helps me remain grounded.”

Another contestant, Katarina Lengyel, representing New Jersey, has a vigorous pre-show regimen that includes jumping to alleviate nerves. “I literally jump up and down backstage to shake out the adrenaline before I hit the stage,” she says. This physical activity helps her channel her excitement and settle her nerves.

Additionally, Jenna Dykstra, Miss New York USA, leans on music for motivation. Her chosen hype song, “Nothing on Me” by Maz, provides a confidence boost by reinforcing her belief that her only competitor is her own mindset. She recalls a mantra instilled by her first catwalk coach: “Pecho arriba,” which means “chest high.” This phrase resonates with her, serving as a reminder to carry herself with pride.

As these contestants gear up for an extraordinary event that blends empowerment, tradition, and competition, it’s evident that individual rituals and superstitions play a vital role in shaping their experiences. With the Miss USA title at stake, each woman is relying on her unique practices to enhance confidence and potentially secure a place in pageant history.