Royal Debut: Here are the 2025 Little Mr & Miss Waterfest Winners
Excelsior Springs, Mo. – With an entourage of sequins, swimwear, and giggles, the 2025 Little Mr. & Miss Waterfest pageant crowned its newest royalty Friday evening. After rounds of introductions, talents, and tiny charm, Brixlee Manley and Brynnell Bradley walked away with the titles of Little Miss and Little Mr. Waterfest.
The downtown stage, surrounded by the bustle of Waterfest weekend, once again hosted the beloved tradition. The event was organized by local mom, school board member, and Waterfest committee member Kalyn Goode. For many families, the pageant has become a staple of Waterfest, with children returning year after year and inviting their own cheering sections.
This year came with a notable change. For the first time, Goode introduced official runner-up titles to give more young contestants a chance to shine. Named as this year’s prince and princess were Michael Cruz and Raven Brannen, both recognized for their enthusiasm and stage presence.
Winners Manley and Bradley received sparkling crowns, sashes, and scepters provided by Kriston Mosley of the Good Samaritan Center. Their prize packages included a professional photo session from Captured by Lani Michelle valued at over $200, a starring role in Saturday’s parade, and even the chance to sign autographs for fans lingering after the show.
The contestants answered questions about their schools, pets, and thoughts on kindness before sharing talents ranging from cartwheels to comedy. One standout moment featured a contestant riding across the stage on a decked-out scooter and shouting “cowabunga” to laughter and applause.
Goode, who had spent the day running the popular Kid’s Zone, pushed through the pageant despite battling heat exhaustion. With help from her behind-the-scenes crew, she continued to host, aiming to make sure the children and families competing had a meaningful experience.
Goode insisted she was not alone in her efforts. Sara Noblet and Kriston Mosley played key roles throughout the evening, from wrangling contestants to adjusting tiaras and offering last-minute pep talks backstage.
Judging duties fell to three familiar faces. Noblet, the Good Samaritan Center Director, Officer Samantha Nash-St. John, a well-loved Excelsior Springs police officer and school resource officer, and Annabella Kiprop, the 2023 Little Miss Waterfest, whose return added a sweet touch.
While the pageant included both new elements and traditions, in Excelsior Springs, even the littlest citizens get their moment to shine!
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