K of C BBQ Little Miss & Mr. and Baby contests return Aug. 16
Published 2:53 pm Wednesday, August 5, 2026
QUINCY — The K of C BBQ’s Little Miss & Mr. and Baby contests will mark their 10th year Aug. 16, continuing a tradition held alongside the annual Knights of Columbus BBQ at the organization’s grounds, 700 S. 36th St.
The contests, held in the Entertainment Tent, give young children a chance to show off their personalities, stage presence, and smiles in front of judges and a crowd. This year’s costume theme is “American Pride,” tied to the 250th anniversary of the United States, and organizers said participants can dress as anything they feel represents America, from patriotic colors to famous Americans, landmarks, sports icons, or traditions.
The Baby Contest, open to children ages 0 to 35 months, begins at 1 p.m. and carries a $15 entry fee. Participants are divided into categories by age and gender, with awards given in each category and one overall boy and one overall girl selected from the first-place winners.
The Little Miss & Mr. Contest, open to children ages 3 to 6, begins at 2 p.m. and carries a $25 entry fee. Contestants are judged on personality, stage presence, and costume, and answer general questions posed by the event’s emcee. All Little Miss & Mr. contestants receive a goody bag.
“Reaching the 10-year mark is really special,” contest organizer Lindsey Hess said in a statement. “We love seeing families return each year, watching the children have fun on stage, and giving everyone a chance to make memories together as we celebrate the end of the summer season.”
The 2026 Little Miss & Mr. K of C BBQ, along with the Baby Boy and Baby Girl winners, will each receive a crown, trophy, and sash, and will have the opportunity to represent the BBQ at community parades and events throughout the year. Organizers said all proceeds from the contests benefit academic scholarships for young women in the Quincy area.
Participants must preregister online. The contests are part of the broader K of C BBQ weekend, which runs Aug. 14-16 and features food, live entertainment, games, and carnival rides.
