JERSEY SHORE — As the nation gears up to celebrate its 250th birthday, Jersey Shore Borough is doing the same with its annual Town Meeting. Along with it comes the annual Queen Tiadaghton Contest. This year, five local girls are vying for the title of 2026 Queen Tiadaghton.

The following young ladies will take part in the tea and pageant leading up to a crowning on July 4 at 6 p.m.:

— Josephine Celia Renninger, daughter of Brian and Jessica Renninger

— Gracie Hyde, daughter of Rowena Hyde

— Layla Melodie-Mae Gallagher, daughter of Jonathan and Stacey Gallagher

— Kierra Elizabeth Arnold, daughter of Jordan and Gwendolyn Arnold

— Isabella Donna Zimmerman, daughter of Jaime and William Zimmerman

The Queens Tea and Pageant will take place on Saturday, June 20, beginning at 11 a.m., at Independent Hose Company No. 1.

New this year, the crowning ceremony will take place on Saturday, July 4, instead of following the annual parade on Thursday, July 2.

According to pageant organizers, the ceremony will be held at 6 p.m. on the grounds at the town meeting prior to fireworks. The annual Baby Sweetheart Contest will still conclude following the parade.

The annual Jersey Shore Town Meeting will be held from Sunday, June 28, to Saturday, July 4, at the Thompson Street Recreational Field and park area near the Jersey Shore Middle School.

The event features food and craft vendors, rides, games, live music and more.

To keep up with the town meeting, visit Jersey Shore Town Meeting on Facebook.