The third annual Miss Rhode Island Italia pageant is now accepting applications for contestants.

The unique celebration of Rhode Island’s Italian-American heritage will be held from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on May 22 at the Providence Downtown Marriott. Rhode Island has the largest Italian-American population per capita in the United States, with approximately 200,000 people.

The competition includes multiple categories. Young women ages seven to 11 can submit applications for “Little Miss Italia”; those ages 12 to 14 can apply for “Miss Pre-Teen Italia”; those ages 15 to 17 can apply for “Miss Teen Italia”; those ages 18 to 26 can vie for “Miss Italia”; and those age 27 and up can seek honors as “Ms. Italia.” There is a “Mrs. Italia” category for married women, with no age restriction.

Contestants must be at least 25 percent Italian-American by birth or ancestry, and must live and/or work in Rhode Island.

Contestants will compete on stage in formal wear and interview.

There is no talent or swimsuit competition. The registration fee is $100, which is used to help defray the cost of the venue, prize packages, and other expenses.

Winners will receive a crown, official banner, professional photos, gift certificates, and gifts from participating restaurants and sponsors. Age division winners will have an opportunity to make appearances throughout the year, participate in parades, attend VIP events such as Style week and Water Fire, participate in fundraisers, and possibly be chosen for a one-year modeling scholarship.

Support is appreciated from local businesses that may provide advertising or congratulatory pages in the event program, or donate prizes for the six winners. Program advertising rates start at $125. Prizes might include restaurant gift certificates, salon/spa packages, boutique certificates, jewelry, photo shoots, gift bags, gym memberships, or event tickets. Prize sponsors are listed on the website, social media platforms, and in the official program book.

To receive a contestant application, information on program book advertising, or to become a prize sponsor, contact Pat Paolino Cruz at patpaolinocruz@

gmail.com.