Get ready for an unforgettable evening of fun, flair, and fierce competition as we sash the next Klondike Kate! These talented and charismatic performers will take the stage, showcasing their show-stopping vocals, dazzling costumes, and larger-than-life personalities.
This is your chance to witness the crowning moment when the 2026 Klondike Kate takes her place as the embodiment of charm, sass, and sweetness. The stage is set, the contestants are ready—who will claim the crown?
Don’t miss the thrill and excitement of the sashing of Klondike Kate 2026!
| Date | Wednesday, January 7, 2026 |
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| Time | Doors Open: 6pm Show Begins: 6:30pm |
| Location | Mintahoe Catering & Events Inwood Oaks Event Center (FKA the Prom Center) 484 Inwood Ave N Oakdale, MN 55128 Google Map info@mintahoe.com 612-253-0255 |
Master of Ceremonies
We’re thrilled to have Matt Belanger, Emmy Award-winning journalist and morning anchor for 5 Eyewitness News at KSTP-TV, returning as the emcee for the Klondike Kate Competition! Matt has been a cherished part of this event for the past few years, bringing his dynamic energy and engaging presence to the stage.
Contestants
Ruby Ericson
Ruby has always enjoyed entertaining through dance, singing, and acting, starting at a young age. Ruby joined Sweet Adelines International in 1987 and continues to perform with them. Ruby sings in a contemporary ensemble through church. She has worked as a karaoke host, and for Eastern Onion, performing singing telegrams. Ruby has performed in many community theatre productions, including musicals.
Bonnie Lopez
Bonnie was in Jazz Choir in high school. She wanted to be Klondike Kate for as many years as she can remember – and it doesn’t hurt that she loves to flirt! Bonnie thinks the Kates are all beautiful, inside and out. The work the Kates do with veterans is near and dear to Bonnie’s heart, since her husband is a veteran with cancer from Agent Orange. Once when he was in the hospital, it made his day that the Kates were visiting the veterans and happened to walk in his room without even knowing he was there.
Ericka Golden
Ericka has been musical all her life, starting with playing the piano, then guitar, recorder, and organ. She plans on taking harp lessons. She loves expressing herself with dancing and singing. Music is in her head 24/7 – studying songs, singing karaoke, with bands, or playing instruments. She loves singing Diana Ross & the Supremes, Temptations, Metallica, GnR, Celine Dion, Motley Crue and more. Being Kate would give Ericka the opportunity to represent and be part of the Winter Carnival, entertain, and meet new people.
Kat Connery
Kat is a storyteller in every sense – voice actor, costumer, fiber artist, and lifelong performer. From cosplay stages to Renaissance festivals, she’s spent decades weaving joy into community spaces. Her voice brings characters to life, her hands craft magic from fabric and fiber, and her heart leads with kindness. Whether spinning tales or spinning wool, Kat shows up with warmth, wit, and a wink. She’s honored to be a part of the Klondike Kate 2026 celebration.
| Seating | The ballroom will feature tables seating eight guests each. Unless you have reserved a table, seating will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. |
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| Tickets | Tickets will be available online from December 1, 2025, to January 1, 2026. $25 – Online Pre-Sale General Admission (no assigned seating) $275 – Reserved Table for Eight (online only) $30 – At-the-Door General Admission (no assigned seating) All tickets will be held at will call under the purchaser’s name. Please save your confirmation email and forward it to any guests for whom you have purchased tickets. |
| Meet and Greet | After Klondike Kate 2026 is announced there will be a reception area in the lobby of the event center for photos. |
Tickets
Door: $30