Alice in Dairyland Final Being Held in Marathon County Tomorrow, Saturday, May 16th

Friday, May 15th, 2026 -- 8:01 AM

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) will officially select the 79th Alice in Dairyland on May 16, 2026, during the annual finals event in Marathon County.

According to Blake Jackson with the Wisconsin Ag connection, the chosen candidate will begin serving as DATCP’s full-time marketing and communications professional on July 6, 2026. Current Alice in Dairyland, Sarah Hagenow, will continue in the role until the transition takes place this summer.

DATCP has invited members of the media and the public to attend several events connected to the final selection process. Organizers noted that pre-registration is required for media representatives wishing to attend, photograph, or record the activities.

The finals will feature six top candidates competing for the title: Faith Baerwolf, Kelly Herness, Gabrielle Huitema, Jessica Moor, Anastasia Poull, and Michelle Stangler. Assistant Deputy Secretary Mike Strigel is also expected to participate in Saturday’s program, alongside Alice in Dairyland alumnae.

Activities begin Friday, May 15, at Rib River by Accentu in Marathon City. Events include a Wisconsin Products Showcase from 5 to 7 p.m., followed by the Alice in Dairyland Top Candidate Forum from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday’s events will take place at the Hilton Garden Inn-Wausau in Wausau.

The schedule includes a reception and social hour, a finale banquet, and the main finale program. The announcement of the 79th Alice in Dairyland is scheduled for 8:30 p.m., followed by a media availability session with the newly selected ambassador.

For more information, visit https://www.aliceindairyland.com/79th-finals-host.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.