Jazmin Reyes Rivas has been crowned 2026 Capital Lakefair Queen.
Rivas, a Capital High School student, was celebrated alongside her fellow Capital Lakefair Royalty Court members during a Coronation Night Ceremony on Thursday, July 16.
The Lakefair summer festival officially began the day prior, on Wednesday, July 15, and runs through Sunday, July 19.
The Coronation Night ceremony celebrated a return to tradition after a 15 year hiatus.
The winning queen was announced via helicopter, with Rivas’ name written on the side of the aircraft as it flew over the Lakefair mainstage on Thursday.
Rivas is the daughter of Lorena Rivas and Emmanuel Reyes. A passionate and curious learner, Rivas thrives in the rigorous IB Program, where she is currently studying IB Psychology, Chemistry, History of the Americas, and Language and Literature, earning college credit while still in high school. When she finds a little time away from her studies, she enjoys reading, sewing, baking, and showcasing her talents on a competitive soccer team.
Beyond the classroom, Rivas is dedicated to serving her community through her volunteer work with Olympia Parks and Recreation. She plans to pursue a career in immigration law, to advocate for those like her parents, who immigrated to the United States when they were no older than Rivas is now.
“My parents started from scratch in a foreign country and despite facing a world that has beat them with prejudice, they’ve persevered, and their resilience to this has motivated me to achieve the most I can to honor that sacrifice and courage,” Rivas said Thursday.
Of Rivas, Lakefair Royalty organizers said, “Jazmin brings enthusiasm, positivity, and genuine warmth to every event she attends. Her energy is contagious, and her commitment to both her community.”
The royalty court participates in all aspects of the organization throughout the season, and visit locations across Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia as the Lakefair Float rides in parades hosted by other community festivals.
Each princess receives a $3,000 scholarship to be applied to any type of higher education, and the selected queen receives an additional $2,000.
