Enter the Talent Show
Thank you for your interest in participating in the 2026 Klondike Kate Fall Fundraiser, Kates Got Talent, How About You?
This family-friendly talent show brings together members of the St. Paul Winter Carnival community, their family and friends, and other community ambassadors to take the stage in support of a nonprofit organization of their choice. There is no entry fee to participate.
Participation is limited to 10 acts and spots are filled on a first-come basis. Applications are due October 31, 2026.
Who Can Participate
The talent show is open to current and former members of St. Paul Winter Carnival groups, as well as their family and friends. Current ambassadors from other community organizations are also welcome to participate.
Former ambassadors from other organizations may participate when their organization’s current ambassadors are not participating.
Current Klondike Kates and 2027 Klondike Kate contestants are not eligible to enter. Family and friends of Klondike Kates are welcome to participate.
Event Details
Sunday, November 8, 2026
North St. Paul American Legion Post 39
2678 7th Ave. E., North St. Paul
Doors open at 1 p.m. and the talent show begins at 2 p.m.
Contestants who would like to rehearse with the DJ and sound system will be asked to arrive early. Your arrival and rehearsal time will be provided closer to the event. When you arrive, check in with a Corset Crew volunteer at the front table.
Talent for a Good Cause
Each act will select a nonprofit organization to represent during the competition. Cash prizes will be donated to the nonprofits represented by the top three acts, and every participating act will also have an opportunity to raise money for its chosen organization through the People’s Choice competition.
Each group will receive a fundraising QR code to share leading up to the event. Cash donations will also be accepted at the event.
Have Fun With Your Act
We encourage you to get creative! Contestants are welcome to dress in costume, incorporate props or use instruments as part of their performance. Performers are responsible for providing their own props and instruments.
We also encourage participants to promote their act and chosen nonprofit through email and social media. Fundraising and event links will be provided to participating groups.
Judging & Prizes
Performances will be judged on:
- Originality
- Costume
- Audience appeal
- Stage presence
- Preparation
- Overall performance
The 2026 judging panel includes Ruby Ericson, Klondike Kate 2026; Dave Jansen, Vulcanus Rex the 88th; and Peter Kenefick, Boreas Rex the 89th.
Cash prizes will be donated directly to the nonprofit represented by each winning act:
1st Place — $200
2nd Place — $100
3rd Place — $50
The People’s Choice Award is determined separately by the amount of money each act raises before and during the event.
