TRENTON, NJ — New Jersey lawmakers are pushing for the Miss America Pageant to move back to Atlantic City, citing the competition’s deep historical ties to the seaside resort town.
The Assembly Tourism, Gaming and the Arts Committee approved Assembly Resolution No. 166, which calls on the Miss America Organization to bring the pageant back to Atlantic City in 2025 and make it the event’s permanent home.
The Miss America Pageant originated in Atlantic City in 1921 as the Inter-City Beauty Contest, growing into a nationally recognized competition and a key part of the city’s cultural identity. Despite its long history in New Jersey, the pageant relocated to Orlando, Florida, in 2024.
Lawmakers emphasized the pageant’s contributions to promoting women’s education and advocacy. Since 1945, it has awarded more than $150 million in scholarships and supported social causes through its platform initiative, introduced in 1989.
“This resolution reflects the importance of bringing Miss America back to where it all began, ensuring that Atlantic City remains part of this iconic tradition,” the committee stated.