Edited by Mikkel Hyldebrandt
Photos by Russ Youngblood, Preston Woods @pplanetphotography
Atlanta’s queer community is once again preparing for one of the most anticipated charity pageants on the city’s social calendar — the 2026 Mx. Joining Hearts Pageant, taking place Sunday March 8 at the iconic Atlanta Eagle. This signature event celebrates charisma, community leadership, and fierce fundraising spirit as contestants vie for the chance to wear the coveted Joining Hearts crown, sash, and scepter while representing the organization throughout the 2026 season. More than just a competition of beauty and talent, the pageant showcases a diverse lineup of performers and advocates, each bringing pride, personality, and purpose to the stage. With categories ranging from fundraising to interview, presentation, talent, and onstage Q&A, it’s a night that blends pageantry tradition with a modern, community-driven twist.
A Legacy of Impact and Representation
Since its inception, the Mx. Joining Hearts Pageant has become much more than a single event — it’s a platform for leaders who uplift Atlanta’s LGBTQ+ community while raising crucial funds for HIV/AIDS-related services. Past titleholders have used their year of service to advocate for health equity, host community gatherings, and amplify Joining Hearts’ mission at events large and small across the city. In 2025, for example, Miss Joining Hearts Coco Iman Star reigned with dedication, engaging in outreach that strengthened visibility for HIV prevention and support services throughout Atlanta.
Looking forward to 2026, contestants are already campaigning — both in terms of fundraising and in building community support — with the winner expected to be a visible ambassador for inclusion, positivity, and activism over the coming year. The title comes with a substantial prize package, including VIP tickets to Joining Hearts’ major events, a professional photoshoot courtesy of Just Toby©, and priority access to appearances across the organization’s bustling calendar.
What to Expect This Year
As befitting warmup, Joining Hearts will be hosting a pre-Mx Joining Hearts beer bust at the Atlanta Eagle on Saturday March 7 to kick off the fundraising efforts. On Sunday night, doors open early to welcome guests for a dynamic program that blends competition with meaningful storytelling and entertainment. Finalists will have spent the weeks leading up to the show engaging in fundraising efforts, public appearances, and interviews — all part of the judged criteria that goes beyond glamour to honor those who show dedication to the cause. Following the crowning, the new Mx. Joining Hearts titleholder will immediately begin their role as an ambassador at subsequent celebrations, including signature events like the annual Joining Hearts Main Event Weekend pool party tea dances, and more.
More Than a Pageant
At the heart of the Mx. Joining Hearts Pageant lies the mission of Joining Hearts, an all-volunteer nonprofit that has been raising awareness and vital funds for HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and housing assistance in Atlanta since 1987. What began as a small fundraising effort has grown into one of the city’s most beloved charitable institutions, having donated millions of dollars to local beneficiaries that provide frontline services to those affected by HIV/AIDS.
Every dollar raised by the organization goes directly toward supporting community partners that offer medical care, housing stability programs, and prevention education — efforts that have a direct impact on people’s lives across Atlanta. The Joining Hearts calendar includes a range of events designed to bring people together in celebration while keeping the focus on service; from themed dances and seasonal parties to the highlight of the year — the Main Event pool party, a gathering and large-scale party that draw participants from near and far. To witness world-class DJs, and incredible venue, and the signature fireworks spectacular at the culmination of the night.
WHAT: Joining Hearts Pre-Pageant Beer Bust
WHEN: Saturday, March 7, 3-6 pm
WHERE: Atlanta Eagle
WHAT: 2026 Mx. Joining Hearts Pageant
WHEN: Sunday, March 8, 5-9 pm
WHERE: Atlanta Eagle
