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.
Here's information on the Lakefair princesses this year:
This year’s princesses, with bios presented by Capital Lakefair organizers, are:
Princess Claire Byers — Avanti High School
Claire represents Avanti High School and is the daughter of Jessica and Christopher Byers. A curious and ambitious scholar, Claire is charting her own exciting path through Running Start as she pursues her dream of a future in nursing. When she’s not conquering her studies, she generously shares her time and talents with others. Claire serves as a counselor at Camp Cispus, volunteers at a local animal shelter caring for furry friends, and participates in 4-H, helping children, animals, and her community learn, grow, and thrive.
Claire truly embraces the spirit of service. She also volunteers at a daycare, where her patience, kindness, and natural ability to connect with young children shine through. Whether she is helping campers, caring for animals, supporting children, or excelling academically, Claire approaches every opportunity with enthusiasm and compassion.
A bright leader with a heart full of care, Claire shines wherever she goes and is already making a positive impact on the world around her.
Princess Claire Olmstead — Olympia High School
Claire represents Olympia High School. She is the daughter of Eric and Heidi Olmstead and brings energy and determination to everything she does at school.
A standout athlete, she competes in track and field as a javelin thrower and races in cross-country with endurance and determination. Claire is also a dedicated musician, skillfully playing both the violin and viola. In the classroom, she challenges herself by taking AP English and AP History, reflecting her love of learning and curiosity about the world. Committed to giving back, Claire serves as a Camp Cispus counselor, guiding fifth graders through summer adventures with care, patience, and a sense of fun. Looking ahead, she plans to pursue a future in education, combining her passion for mentorship with her dedication to making a positive impact. Whether on the track, in the orchestra, or at camp, Claire approaches every challenge with heart and determination.
Princess Isabella Valerio — River Ridge High School
Isabella represents River Ridge High School and is the daughter of Victoria and Mark Valerio. A bright and determined leader, Isabella is building her future through Running Start as she pursues her dream of a career in law. When she’s not focused on her studies, she is making a meaningful impact in her community as the deputy mayor of the Lacey City Youth Council and as an officer in the National Junior Honor Society. With her sights set on law school, Isabella is already developing the leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills of a future advocate. Outside of her many leadership commitments, Isabella truly finds her voice — literally. An active member of her school choir, she has a beautiful singing voice and a passion for music that shines every time she performs. This year, her talent and dedication earned her a place at the State Solo and Ensemble Competition, a remarkable achievement that reflects both her hard work and artistic excellence.
